Cherry and walnut strudel

Quick Dessert with Cherry Jam and Walnut - Delicious Strudels for Fasting Days

When it comes to simple yet incredibly tasty desserts, nothing compares to a serving of strudels with cherry jam and walnut. This quick dessert, perfect for fasting days, combines the crispy texture of puff pastry with the fruity sweetness and rich aroma of walnuts. I propose a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a smile to your face due to its simplicity. Let's get to work!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 18 strudels

Ingredients:
- 800 g puff pastry (you can also use homemade, but frozen will simplify your work)
- ½ jar (about 200 g) cherry jam (choose a quality jam with whole fruits for a more intense flavor)
- 3 tablespoons ground walnuts (for added texture and flavor)
- 1 tablespoon coconut (optional, but will add a perfect tropical taste)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

A bit of history:
Strudels have a rich dessert tradition found in many cultures. Over time, they have evolved into various shapes and fillings, but their essence remains the same: a delicious combination of light pastry and savory fillings. These strudels with cherry jam and walnut are a modern and creative version that fits perfectly for any occasion, whether you are fasting or simply want to treat your family to something sweet.

Step by Step:
1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 190°C. It is essential to have the oven well heated to achieve a crispy and golden texture for the strudels.

2. Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine the cherry jam with the ground walnuts and coconut, if you choose to use it. Mix well until you get a homogeneous composition. This filling will give the strudels a delicious taste, and the ground walnuts will add a crunch.

3. Prepare the dough: Remove the puff pastry from the freezer and let it thaw according to the instructions on the package. Once thawed, roll it out on a clean surface using a rolling pin into an even layer. Then, cut the dough into 18 rectangles of the desired size – a size of about 10x15 cm is ideal.

4. Fill and roll: On each rectangle of dough, place a tablespoon of the jam and walnut mixture, then roll the dough starting from one edge. Make sure the filling is well wrapped in the dough to prevent leaks during baking.

5. Place on the tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the strudels seam side down. Use a sharp knife to lightly score the tops – this will allow steam to escape during baking, helping the strudels stay crispy.

6. Sprinkle poppy seeds: Sprinkle a little poppy seeds on top of each strudel for an attractive appearance and a subtle nutty flavor.

7. Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the strudels for 25-30 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. It is important to keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to ensure they do not burn.

8. Decorate and serve: Once the strudels are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Then, dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant and sweet finish.

Practical Tips and Variations:
- If you don’t have cherry jam, you can experiment with other types of jam, such as peach or cherry.
- You can replace the walnuts with ground almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor.
- To add a touch of vanilla, you can incorporate a few drops of vanilla essence into the filling.
- These strudels can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature and can be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrast of textures.

Nutritional Information (per strudel):
- Calories: approximately 180 kcal
- Fat: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fiber: 1 g

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Yes, if you have the time and patience to make it, homemade puff pastry will add a personal touch to the recipe.

- Can I freeze the strudels?
Yes, you can freeze the strudels before baking. Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container.

- What other drinks pair well with this dessert?
A cup of fruit tea or fresh lemonade would perfectly complement these strudels.

In conclusion, these strudels with cherry jam and walnut are an excellent choice for a quick and delicious dessert, perfect for fasting days or anytime you crave something sweet. With a crispy texture and flavorful filling, they are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite and savor the moment of indulgence! Bon appétit!