Walnut and fruit preserve baskets

Nut and jam baskets – a delicacy that combines tradition with flavor! These little treats are perfect for a sweet snack or to impress guests at a festive table. I will guide you step by step in preparing these delicious baskets, sharing some useful tips to achieve a perfect result.

A brief history of the baskets
Nut and jam baskets have a rich tradition, being a popular dessert in many cultures. These sweet delights are often associated with holidays and family gatherings, bringing together the warm flavors of nuts and the concentrated sweetness of plum jam. Each bite will transport you to a world of pleasant memories and shared moments.

Preparation time
- Active time: 45 minutes
- Cooling time: 2 hours (or overnight)
- Total time: 3 hours (or overnight)
- Number of servings: 46 baskets

Ingredients
For the dough:
- 600 g flour
- 300 g butter (80% fat), at room temperature
- 4 egg yolks
- 100 g cooking cream
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 600 g plum jam (or other preferred jam)
- 6 egg whites
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 1 vial of rum essence
- 300 g ground walnuts

Step by step for delicious baskets

1. Preparing the dough
Start by taking a large bowl. Add the flour and make a well in the center. Here, add the butter at room temperature, egg yolks, sugar, salt, baking soda mixed with lemon juice, and cream. Use a spatula or fork to mix the ingredients, then proceed to knead.

Practical tips:
- Make sure the butter is soft but not completely melted to achieve a homogeneous dough.
- If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

Knead the dough until it becomes well combined and non-sticky. Then, shape it into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight. This step allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to work with.

2. Preparing the molds
When the dough is ready, prepare the fluted metal molds. Grease them well with oil and use a paper towel to remove the excess. This step will help the baskets not to stick.

3. Forming the baskets
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 0.5 cm. Use a disc slightly larger than the molds to cut circles that you will place in the molds. Gently press the edges to shape them according to the mold.

Variations:
- You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor.

4. Filling and preparing the meringue
In each basket, add a teaspoon of jam. Make sure it is evenly distributed.

Separately, beat the egg whites with the sugar until you obtain a firm foam. Add the rum essence and ground walnuts, gently folding with a spatula to avoid breaking the meringue. Fill each basket with this mixture using a piping bag.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 160°C. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for 25 minutes. The baskets will acquire a golden color and an appetizing appearance.

6. Cooling and serving
After baking, let the baskets cool slightly. Using an oven mitt, take each metal mold and gently tilt it over your palm; the baskets will fall out on their own! Place them on a rack to cool completely.

Personal tip:
- Once they are completely cool, dust the baskets with powdered sugar for an elegant look and sweet taste.

Nutritional benefits
These baskets are rich in nuts, providing healthy fats, proteins, and plenty of vitamins and minerals. The plum jam adds fiber and antioxidants, making it a healthier choice compared to other processed jams.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of jam?
- Yes, you can experiment with apple jam or other fruits, but the taste and texture will differ.

2. How can I store the baskets?
- They store well in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.

3. What drinks pair well with the baskets?
- These delights pair perfectly with fruit tea or flavored coffee. A sweet wine could also be an excellent choice!

Conclusion
Now that you have all the necessary information, you just have to get cooking! Nut and jam baskets are not just a dessert, but a culinary experience worth savoring. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, these treats will bring a smile to anyone's face. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: Dough: 600g flour, 300g 80% butter, 4 egg yolks, 100g cooking cream, 100g powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, a pinch of salt. Filling: 600g plum jam, 6 egg whites, 200g granulated sugar, 1 vial of rum essence, 300g ground walnuts.