Embarking on an adventure, through desserts made with dough is like entering a captivating realm filled with an array of flavors and textures. In this guide, we will explore five dough-based desserts, each one a masterpiece of artistry that offers a lingering indulgence even after the final bite.
Recipe 1. The timeless apple pie: A comforting delight
Ingredients:
- 2-1/2 cups of all purpose flour
- 1 cup of chilled butter
- 1/4 cup of ice cold water
- 6 cups of sliced apples
- 3/4 cup of sugar
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
The artistry behind the pie crust:
- In a bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of salt.
- Incorporate the butter into the mixture until it reaches a texture.
- Gradually add the ice water while stirring until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion and let it chill for an hour.
Filling Your Heart with Flavor:
- Toss the sliced apples, with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and lemon juice.
- Roll out one portion of the dough on a floured surface.
- Start by lining a 9 inch pie dish with the dough.
- Next, fill the pie with the apple mixture and place bits of butter on top.
- Roll out the dough, cover the pie with it and crimp the edges to seal it.
Creating a masterpiece:
- Place the pie in an oven preheated to 375°F and bake for 50 minutes, until it turns golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool before serving to savor a slice of nostalgia.
Recipe 2. Chocolate eclairs: A French delight
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 oz semisweet chocolate
Preparing a choux pastry:
- Bring water and butter to a boil in a saucepan.
- Stir in flour until it forms a ball like consistency.
- Remove from heat and beat in eggs one by one.
- Pipe long strips of this dough onto a baking sheet.
- Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes then reduce heat to 375°F for an additional 20 minutes.
Creamy filling
- Whip cream, sugar and vanilla extract, until stiff peaks form.
- Once eclairs have cooled off completely, fill them generously with this delicious cream filling.
Chocolate glaze:
- Gently heat some cream with chocolate until it melts.
- Dip the top of each eclair into the melted chocolate.
Recipe 3. Savory cheese danish: A delicious Scandinavian treat
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of all purpose flour
- 1 cup of chilled butter
- 1/2 cup of cream
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 cup of cream cheese
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
Pastry preparation:
- Mix together flour and salt.
- Incorporate the butter into the mixture then add cream.
- Allow the dough to chill for an hour.
- Roll out the dough, fold it and repeat this process twice.
Cheese filling:
- Beat together cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk and lemon zest until a smooth consistency is achieved.
Assembly:
- Cut the dough into squares.
- Place a dollop of filling in the center of each square.
- Bake at a temperature of 400°F for 20 minutes.
Recipe 4. Churros with chocolate sauce: A Spanish delight
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of butter
- 1 cup of all purpose flour
- 3 eggs
- Oil for frying
- Sugar and cinnamon for coating
- 4 ounces of chocolate
- 1/2 cup of cream
Preparing the Churros:
- Start by boiling water together with butter.
- Once boiled, add flour and stir vigorously.
- Allow the mixture to cool down before adding the eggs one at a time.
- Use a piping bag to shape the dough into churros and fry them in oil until they turn golden.
Chocolate dip:
- In a saucepan, melt the chocolate along with the cream over low heat.
- Serve your churros along with chocolate sauce.
Recipe 5. Baklava: An exquisite Middle Eastern dessert
Ingredients:
- 1 package of dough
- 1 cup of melted butter
- 2 cups of chopped nuts
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup honey
The artful layering process:
- Start by brushing each phyllo sheet with melted butter.
- Begin layering half the portion in a pan then add mixed nuts and sprinkle ground cinnamon.
- Continue layering using the remaining sheets.
Ingredients:
- In a pot bring sugar and water to boil then add honey.
- After baking, pour the syrup over your baklava dessert.
Baking to perfection:
- Set your temperature to 350°F. Bake for approximately 50 minutes.
- Allow the baked goods to cool before serving, so you can truly savor a piece of history.
- Each of these desserts, ranging from the American classic apple pie to the intriguing Middle Eastern baklava takes us on a flavorful journey. They represent the vibrant world of art, going beyond mere sweets.
These desserts are stories unto themselves, carrying with them traditions and emotions that are beautifully presented on a plate waiting to be enjoyed. The process of creating these treats brings joy as much as their delectable taste does. They connect us with cultures and eras fostering an appreciation for the artistry of baking. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, incorporating these recipes into your repertoire will surely add a touch of sweetness.