Croissants with plum jam
Plum Jam Crescents - a traditional delicacy that will instantly win over even the most discerning connoisseurs. These little treats melt in your mouth, with a tender texture and a perfectly balanced sweet-sour taste. Made with love and patience, the crescents are ideal for a quick snack or to be served on a special occasion. In the following lines, I will guide you step by step so that you achieve perfect results!
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Number of Servings: 30 crescents
Necessary Ingredients
- 200 g lard (or butter, if you prefer a creamier version)
- 2 packets of baking powder
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (preferably white wine or apple vinegar)
- 9-10 tablespoons water
- 450 g flour (type 000 or 550)
- 150 g vanilla powdered sugar
- 1 jar of plum jam (about 400 g)
A Bit of History
Plum jam crescents are a traditional recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation. They represent a perfect combination of simplicity and refinement, often prepared in households for festive occasions, but also for a little daily treat. Plum jam, a staple ingredient, brings an intense and aromatic flavor, symbolizing summer when the plums are full of sweet fruits.
Making the Crescents
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
1. In a large bowl, add 200 g of lard. If you choose to use butter, make sure it is at room temperature for easier incorporation.
2. Add the 2 packets of baking powder, then quench them with the 2 tablespoons of vinegar. You will notice a foam forming, indicating that the ingredients have reacted correctly.
3. Using a wooden spoon, mix the lard with the quenched baking powder until you obtain a homogeneous paste, which should resemble mayonnaise.
4. Start gradually adding the flour, mixing constantly. Finally, add 9-10 tablespoons of water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. This process may take between 10 and 15 minutes. Do not rush; a well-kneaded dough is the key to beautiful crescents!
Step 2: Shaping the Crescents
1. Once the dough is ready, divide it into two equal parts. Cover one part with a clean towel to prevent it from drying out.
2. On a floured surface, roll out a sheet about 2 cm thick from the first part of the dough.
3. Place a strip of plum jam along the edge of the sheet, leaving a little space at the ends.
4. Carefully rolling, form a log, making sure not to let the filling escape. If necessary, trim the excess dough from the ends.
5. With a sharp knife, cut the log into pieces of 3-4 cm, thus obtaining the crescents.
6. Repeat the process with the other part of the dough.
Step 3: Baking
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat).
2. Place the crescents on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to bake evenly.
3. Bake the crescents for 30 minutes, until they become golden and slightly browned.
Step 4: Finishing
1. After removing them from the oven, let them cool slightly. In the meantime, prepare the vanilla powdered sugar.
2. While they are still hot, dip the crescents into the vanilla powdered sugar. This step will add a touch of sweetness and a special appearance.
Practical Tips
- Ingredients: Make sure that the lard or butter is of good quality, as the final texture of the crescents will depend on this aspect. Using flour type 000 or 550 will yield a finer dough.
- Plum Jam: If you like a more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of rum essence to the plum jam. You can also experiment with other jams or marmalades, such as apricot or raspberry.
- Vegan Option: You can replace the lard with coconut oil and use sparkling water instead of regular water for a lighter dough.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of filling?
Yes, you can use fruit jams, ground nuts, or chocolate to vary the flavor of the crescents.
2. Can the crescents be stored?
Yes, the crescents store well in an airtight container for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Plum jam crescents are delicious served warm, alongside a cup of aromatic tea or coffee. You can also pair them with vanilla ice cream for a special dessert.
Experiment with the recipe and add your personal touch! Whether you prepare them for a party, a gathering with friends, or simply to indulge yourself, these plum jam crescents will make you fall in love with cooking!
Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 200 g lard, 2 packets baking powder, 2 tablespoons vinegar, 9-10 tablespoons water, 450 g flour, 150 g vanilla powdered sugar, 1 jar of plum jam
