Frogs with nuts

Walnut Frogs - An Irresistible Delicacy

Walnut frogs are a traditional dessert, full of flavor and sweet childhood memories. These treats, with a flaky dough and rich walnut filling, are perfect for serving at a festive meal or simply to bring a smile to the faces of loved ones. Let’s embark together on making this quick and simple dessert that is sure to impress!

General Information

- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Refrigeration time: 30 minutes (ideally overnight)
- Baking time: 20 minutes
- Number of servings: Approximately 30 frogs

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Each frog contains approximately 100 calories, so it's best to enjoy them in moderation! Walnuts are rich in healthy fats, proteins, and antioxidants, making these delights not only tasty but also nutritious.

Necessary Ingredients

*For the dough:*
- 100 g lard (or butter, at room temperature)
- 200 g sour cream (20% fat)
- 3 egg yolks
- 330-350 g flour, type 000 (add more if necessary)
- 1 packet of vanilla
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 100 g soft butter for greasing the dough

*For the filling:*
- 3 egg whites
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 150 g ground walnuts
- Powdered sugar for dusting

Making the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix the lard or soft butter with the sour cream. Use a spatula or mixer to achieve a creamy consistency.
2. Add the egg yolks, vanilla, and lemon zest. Mix well to combine the ingredients.
3. Gradually incorporate the flour. Start with 330 g and add more if necessary until you obtain a homogeneous dough.
4. Once the dough is ready, divide it into three equal parts. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is crucial for making the dough easier to roll out.

Forming the Dough Sheets

5. After the dough has cooled, take a piece out of the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a thin rectangular sheet, being careful not to tear it.
6. Moisten the sheet with the soft butter, spreading it evenly over the entire surface. This will provide a delicious texture to the frogs.
7. Carefully roll the sheet into a tight cylinder. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours (ideally overnight).

Preparing the Filling

8. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until foamy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm foam.
9. Gently fold in the ground walnuts, mixing lightly with a spatula to avoid deflating.

Assembling the Frogs

10. Remove the dough rolls from the refrigerator and cut each roll into approximately 10 equal slices (if you want smaller frogs, you can cut into 15-20 pieces).
11. Roll each cut piece into another rectangular sheet. Place a tablespoon of walnut filling in the center of each sheet.
12. Twist the ends of the sheets so that the filling is visible in the middle, creating the frog shape.
13. Place the frogs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them.

Baking

14. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake the frogs for 20 minutes or until they are lightly browned.
15. Once done, let them cool on a rack.

Finishing and Serving

16. After they have completely cooled, dust the frogs with powdered sugar. They will look not only appetizing but also festive!

Serving Suggestions

Walnut frogs pair perfectly with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or fragrant tea. You can serve them alongside vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast between warm and cold.

Variations

For a personal touch, you can try adding cocoa to the walnut filling or using other types of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts. You can also experiment with flavors by adding a splash of rum or orange essence to the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of fat instead of lard?
Yes, you can use butter or coconut oil, but the texture may vary.

- What other fillings can I use?
You can experiment with fruit jams, chocolate, or cottage cheese mixed with sugar.

- Can I freeze the frogs?
Yes, these delights can be frozen! Just make sure to place them in an airtight container.

Useful Tips

To achieve the perfect dough texture, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Also, don’t rush the refrigeration process; allowing the dough to rest will yield better results.

Enjoy making these walnut frogs and don’t forget to share this delight with your loved ones! Bon appétit and happy cooking!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 100 g lard (or fatty butter) 200 g sour cream 20% fat 3 egg yolks 330 - 350 g flour Vanilla Lemon zest 100 g soft butter for greasing the dough. For the filling: 3 egg whites 4 tablespoons sugar 150 g ground walnuts Powdered sugar.