Ukrainian Almond Crescents: A Flaky Delight from Southern Ukraine
These delightful little horns, known as Ukrainian Almond Crescents, are a beloved pastry that hails from the southern regions of Ukraine, offering a delicious combination of flaky texture and nutty sweetness. Stuffed with a luscious mixture of ground almonds and sugar, these pastries are not just treats; they are an experience—one that can quickly become addictive. Perfect for gatherings or simply as a sweet indulgence, these crescents will certainly impress your family and friends.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 25 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 5 minutes |
| Servings | 24 crescents |
| Calories | 219.2 per serving |
| Keywords | European, For Large Groups, < 4 Hours |
Ingredients
To craft these delightful crescents, gather the following ingredients, ensuring that your pantry is stocked with these essentials.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unbleached white flour | 2 to 2 1/2 cups |
| Dry yeast | 1 teaspoon |
| Sweet butter | 1 cup (softened) |
| Sour cream | 2/3 to 3/4 cup |
| Brown sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground almonds | 2 cups |
| Egg whites | 2 large |
| Additional salt for egg whites | 1/4 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile can help you enjoy these pastries in moderation.
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 15.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 39.2 mg |
| Sodium | 58.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 16.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.7 g |
| Sugars | 6.5 g |
| Protein | 4.5 g |
Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to create your Ukrainian Almond Crescents, ensuring each step is carefully executed for the best results.
-
Prepare the Pastry:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 to 2 1/2 cups of unbleached white flour with 1 teaspoon of dry yeast, stirring until well blended.
- Using a pastry fork, cut in 1 cup of softened sweet butter until the mixture resembles coarse meal. This step is crucial for achieving the desired flaky texture.
- Add in 2 egg yolks and 2/3 to 3/4 cup of sour cream, mixing well until combined. The mixture may still appear crumbly at this stage.
- Form the dough into a ball using your hands, taking care to work it as little as possible to maintain tenderness. The dough will feel tacky, which is perfectly normal.
- Wrap the dough in waxed paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
-
Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix together 2 cups of ground almonds and 3/4 cup of brown sugar until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat 2 egg whites and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until stiff peaks form, ensuring that the whites are not overbeaten. Carefully fold the egg whites into the almond and sugar mixture, preserving the lightness of the whipped whites.
-
Roll and Shape the Crescents:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), preparing a lightly oiled baking sheet for the crescents.
- Once the dough has chilled, divide it into three equal portions. On a well-floured surface, roll out each portion into circles about 1/8 inch thick.
- Using a sharp knife, cut each circle into eight pie-shaped wedges. Take a generous spoonful of the filling and spread it over each wedge.
- Starting from the wide end of each wedge, roll it up tightly, similar to forming a croissant. Gently curve the ends to form a crescent shape, ensuring the pointed end is placed down on the baking sheet to prevent them from opening during baking.
-
Bake the Crescents:
- Arrange the rolled crescents on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have space between them for expansion.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 to 40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up, filling your kitchen with their enticing aroma.
-
Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the crescents from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, savoring their flaky, nutty goodness.
Conclusion
These Ukrainian Almond Crescents are a fantastic addition to any dessert table or a delightful treat for afternoon tea. With their rich flavor and tender texture, they encapsulate the essence of traditional Ukrainian baking. As you share these little horns with your loved ones, be prepared for them to disappear quickly, leaving everyone craving more. Happy baking!
