cherry baskets

Cherry Cups - A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 60 cups

If you're looking for an elegant dessert that combines tradition with unforgettable flavor, cherry cups are the perfect choice. These treats have a rich history and are a staple at festive gatherings in many cultures. Whether you enjoy them at a celebration or simply to indulge your taste buds, these cups are always an inspired choice.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 380 g all-purpose flour
- 130 g powdered sugar
- 200 g margarine (preferably Rama)
- 1 egg
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- Zest of one lemon

For the cream:
- 100 ml rum (for an authentic taste, we recommend good quality rum)
- 150 g ladyfinger biscuits
- 700 ml cherry compote (pitted)
- 250 g margarine (preferably Rama)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- Blackcurrant jam (for greasing the cups)
- Chocolate glaze (from Dr. Oetker or melted cooking chocolate mixed with a bit of butter/margarine for a smoother consistency)
- Nuts for decoration (optional, but recommended for added texture and flavor)

Necessary utensils
- 60 round cake molds
- A large mixing bowl
- A spatula
- A mixer (optional for the margarine cream)
- A baking tray

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough
Start by gathering all the ingredients for the dough. In a large bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, baking soda, and lemon zest. Add the cubed margarine and the egg, then mix everything until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. It’s normal for the dough to be slightly sticky; this will contribute to its fine texture.

Once you have the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour. This step allows the dough to firm up, making it easier to handle later.

2. Preparing the Molds
Meanwhile, prepare the cake molds. Grease each mold with oil and dust with flour. This step is crucial to ensure that the cups release easily after baking.

3. Shaping the Cups
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into 60 equal portions. Using your fingers, press each piece of dough into the prepared molds, ensuring that the layer is thin enough. The dough will rise in the oven, so it’s important to leave enough space for the filling.

4. Baking
Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Place the molds on the baking tray and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden. Once done, let them cool slightly before carefully removing them from the molds to avoid breaking.

5. Preparing the Cream
In a bowl, mix the crushed ladyfingers with the rum and 3-4 tablespoons of juice from the cherry compote. Mash them until you achieve a smooth paste. Separately, cream the margarine with the sugar and cocoa until fluffy. Then, combine the two mixtures to create the final cream.

6. Filling the Cups
In each cup, place a teaspoon of blackcurrant jam and spread it on the sides. Then, add one or two cherries from the compote and fill with the prepared cream.

7. Glazing
For the glaze, melt the cooking chocolate mixed with a bit of butter/margarine until it becomes liquid. Cover each cup with the chocolate glaze and decorate with a quarter of a nut, giving it an elegant look and an extra burst of flavor.

Chef's Tip
If you want to experiment, you can also try other tart jams, such as cherry or blueberry, to give your cups a personalized touch. Additionally, if you don’t have round molds, you can use boat-shaped or other cookie molds, adjusting the baking time according to their size.

Storing the Cups
The baked shells can be stored for up to 2 months under proper conditions (in an airtight container at room temperature). You can also freeze the shells for up to 6 months, making them ideal for preparing holiday desserts in advance.

Nutritional Benefits
These cups are not only delicious but also provide an energy source due to the sugar and healthy fats from the margarine. Additionally, cherries and blackcurrants contribute antioxidants and essential vitamins for the body.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with almond flour or whole wheat flour for a healthier version, keeping in mind that the texture will be different.

2. What can I use instead of rum?
If you prefer an alcohol-free option, you can use rum essence, although the flavor will not be as intense.

3. How can I customize the cream?
You can add a few drops of vanilla or almond essence to the margarine cream for an even richer flavor.

Served alongside a fragrant coffee or aromatic tea, these cherry cups are sure to be the stars of any meal. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s turn every moment into a celebration of flavor!

 Ingredients: Dough: 380g flour, 130g powdered sugar, 200g Rama margarine, 1 egg, 1 vanilla sugar, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, grated zest of one lemon. Cream: 100ml rum, 150g ladyfingers, 700ml cherry compote, 250g Rama margarine, 1 tablespoon cocoa jam from blackcurrants, chocolate glaze from Dr. Oetker for decoration, round molds for cakes - approx. 60 pcs.