🇦🇷 Argentinean Caramel-Filled Crescents, known as “Medialunas Rellenas de Dulce de Leche,” are a delectable pastry that hails from Argentina. These crescents are a delightful treat, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a sweet snack with coffee.
📜 History:
Medialunas, which are a classic Argentine pastry, have their origins in Vienna, Austria. They were introduced to Argentina by European immigrants in the late 19th century. Over time, the Argentinean version evolved, becoming smaller and sweeter than the original Austrian croissants. The addition of dulce de leche, a sweet caramel-like spread made from condensed milk, is what distinguishes these crescents and makes them uniquely Argentine.
🥐 Components:
To make Argentinean Caramel-Filled Crescents, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients for the dough:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons of active dry yeast
- ¼ cup of sugar
- ½ cup of milk
- ½ cup of water
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/3 cup of unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 egg
Ingredients for the filling:
- Dulce de leche
👩🍳 Steps to Prepare:
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Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s frothy.
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Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the activated yeast, milk, and egg. Mix until a dough forms. Then, knead in the room-temperature butter until it’s fully incorporated into the dough. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
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Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
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Shape the Crescents: After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large circle. Cut the circle into smaller wedges.
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Add the Filling: Spread a dollop of dulce de leche on each wedge.
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Roll and Shape: Starting at the wider end of each wedge, roll it up to form a crescent shape.
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Second Rise: Place the filled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and allow them to rise for another 30-45 minutes.
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Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the crescents have risen again, bake them for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
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Enjoy: Let them cool slightly, and serve these delicious caramel-filled crescents warm with a cup of coffee or tea.
⏰ Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Argentinean Caramel-Filled Crescents is approximately 3-4 hours, including rising and baking time. The active preparation time is around 30-45 minutes.
Enjoy these sweet and decadent pastries, and don’t forget to savor the rich and creamy dulce de leche filling! 😋🥐🇦🇷
Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Argentinean Caramel-Filled Crescents:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving, which may vary based on the size of the pastry):
- Calories: 250-300
- Total Fat: 10-15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 5-7 grams
- Cholesterol: 25-35 milligrams
- Sodium: 250-350 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 35-45 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 15-20 grams
- Protein: 4-6 grams
Health Information:
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Moderation is Key: Argentinean Caramel-Filled Crescents are delicious but are considered a treat due to their high sugar and fat content. Enjoy them in moderation to maintain a balanced diet.
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High in Sugar: The dulce de leche filling contains a significant amount of sugar, which can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. This makes it less suitable for those with diabetes or individuals monitoring their sugar intake.
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Saturated Fat: The pastry dough contains butter, which contributes to saturated fat. Excessive intake of saturated fat can be associated with heart health concerns. It’s advisable to limit saturated fat consumption and opt for healthier fat sources when possible.
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Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid excessive calorie consumption. Smaller portions can help reduce the impact on your overall diet.
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Nutrient Profile: While these crescents may not be a significant source of essential nutrients, they do provide some energy and carbohydrates for quick energy. The small amount of protein may also contribute to satiety.
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Balance with a Healthy Diet: If you enjoy Argentinean Caramel-Filled Crescents, balance them with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Ensure that you’re meeting your daily nutritional requirements through other food choices.
Remember, the nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. It’s a delightful indulgence, but it’s essential to be mindful of your consumption, particularly if you have specific dietary restrictions or health concerns.
