Nut and jam baskets

Delicious Recipe for Walnut and Jam Baskets

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 35 minutes
Servings: 30 baskets

Welcome to the wonderful world of baking! Today, I present you with a recipe that combines the fragility of the dough with the rich flavor of walnuts and the sweetness of jam. Walnut and jam baskets are desserts that bring a touch of joy in every bite and are perfect for any occasion. Whether you are preparing them for a party, a family gathering, or simply to treat yourself, these delights will surely impress.

The history of these baskets is closely linked to the tradition of sweet breads and walnut desserts, symbolizing hospitality and good taste. In many cultures, preparing sweets with nuts is a custom passed down from generation to generation, and each recipe becomes unique through the ingredients and techniques used.

Necessary ingredients:

For the baskets:
- 550 g flour
- 250 g unsalted butter or margarine
- 4 egg yolks
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (dissolved with lemon juice)

For the filling:
- 4 egg whites
- 7 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon rum essence
- 250 g ground walnuts

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the flour, diced butter, and sugar. Use your fingers to mix the ingredients until you achieve a texture similar to breadcrumbs. This is a crucial step, as the butter must be well integrated into the flour to create a fragile dough.

2. Adding wet ingredients: Continue by adding the egg yolks, sour cream, baking soda dissolved with lemon juice, and vanilla sugar. Knead the dough until it becomes homogeneous, then shape it into a ball, wrapping it in plastic wrap. Let it rest in the refrigerator for one hour. This will help firm up the butter and make it easier to roll out later.

3. Preparing the filling: In another bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy, then gradually add the sugar. Continue mixing until the sugar is completely dissolved and you achieve a firm foam. Finally, add the rum essence and ground walnuts, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air in the mixture.

4. Shaping the baskets: Preheat the oven to 180°C (low heat). Grease the baking molds with a little oil to prevent sticking. On a floured work surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet, then cut out circles with a small glass or cutter.

5. Assembling the baskets: Place the dough circles in the prepared molds, gently pressing the edges. Fill each basket with jam (preferably sour cherry, but you can choose other flavors to your liking). On top of the jam, add the filling made of egg whites and walnuts. You can use a piping bag for a more elegant shape or a spoon for a simpler approach.

6. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the baskets bake for about 35 minutes until golden. You will smell a wonderful aroma of nuts and vanilla filling your kitchen!

7. Finishing: Once completely cooled, dust the baskets with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. These delights are extremely tender and flavorful.

Practical tips:

- Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier incorporation into the flour.
- If you want to add a personal touch, try including lemon or orange zest in the filling for an extra flavor.
- The baskets can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. But they surely won't last long, considering how delicious they are!

Calories and nutritional benefits:

Each basket contains approximately 150 calories, depending on size and ingredients. Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and fiber, making them a nutritious choice, while the jam adds a portion of vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace the jam with something else?
Yes, you can use melted chocolate, cream cheese, or even other types of preserves, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make these baskets less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use sugar-free jams.

3. Can the baskets be frozen?
Yes, it is advisable to freeze them before dusting with sugar. Then, let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

These walnut and jam baskets are an excellent choice for treating your family and friends. Gather your ingredients and let yourself be carried away by the delicious aroma of these goodies! I assure you that no one will be able to resist the temptation to taste at least one (or two)! Once you try this recipe, I'm sure it will become your favorite, and every bite will bring unforgettable memories. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: For the baskets: 550 g flour, 250 g butter/margarine, 4 egg yolks, 4 tablespoons sour cream, 5 tablespoons sugar, 1 packet vanilla sugar, 1 teaspoon baking soda. For the filling: 4 egg whites, 7 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon rum essence, 250 g ground walnuts.

 Tags:  walnut and jam baskets