Introducing “Christmas Stars” – a delightful Danish pastry tradition that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also keeps the festive spirit alive in your home during the magical Christmas season! According to old Danish beliefs, it’s said that if a visitor leaves your house without being fed during “Jul” (Christmas), they might carry away some of the cherished Christmas spirit with them. So, why not ensure that your guests leave with hearts full of warmth and bellies satisfied by treating them to these heavenly Christmas Stars? 🌟
With just a few simple steps and a handful of pantry essentials, you can whip up these delectable pastries in no time, ensuring that the essence of Christmas lingers in every corner of your home. Let’s dive into the recipe and spread some holiday cheer!
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 8 prunes
- 1 1/2 cups of water
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 egg
Instructions:
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Prepare the Prune Filling:
- In a saucepan, combine the prunes, water, and sugar.
- Allow the mixture to simmer gently over medium heat for approximately 20 minutes, until the prunes are tender and infused with sweetness.
- Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Drain off any excess liquid and coarsely puree the prunes, creating a luscious filling bursting with flavor.
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C), ensuring it’s nice and hot to achieve that perfect flakiness in your pastries.
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Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Thaw the puff pastry according to the package instructions, allowing it to reach room temperature for easy handling.
- Roll out the puff pastry into four 12×12-inch squares, using a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.
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Assemble the Stars:
- Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into 3-inch squares, creating perfect bases for your Christmas Stars.
- Spoon a generous teaspoon of the prepared prune filling into the center of each pastry square, spreading it out evenly.
- Next, make a 1 1/2-inch slit from each corner toward the center of the square, creating four flaps.
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Shape the Stars:
- Now, it’s time to create the iconic star shape! Fold alternate points of the pastry toward the center, gently pressing them together to seal.
- As you fold, marvel at the beautiful star pattern taking shape before your eyes, symbolizing the magic of the holiday season.
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Let Them Rest:
- Carefully transfer your assembled Christmas Stars onto an ungreased baking sheet or a baking stone lined with parchment paper.
- Allow the pastries to rest for 15 minutes, giving them a chance to relax and rise slightly before baking.
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Brush with Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, beat the egg to create a simple yet effective egg wash.
- Using a pastry brush, gently coat the surface of each pastry with the egg wash, imparting a golden sheen that promises irresistible flakiness.
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Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking sheet or stone in the preheated oven, allowing the Christmas Stars to bake for approximately 10 minutes.
- Keep a close eye on them as they transform into golden delights, ensuring they’re baked to perfection – crispy on the outside, with tender layers within.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once beautifully golden and fragrant, remove the Christmas Stars from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Serve these heavenly pastries warm or at room temperature, allowing your guests to savor every bite of their festive goodness.
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Spread the Joy:
- As you indulge in these delightful treats, remember the Danish tradition that inspired them – spreading warmth, joy, and the spirit of Christmas to all who enter your home.
With their flaky layers, sweet prune filling, and charming star shape, these Christmas Stars are sure to become a cherished addition to your holiday celebrations. Whether enjoyed with a steaming cup of cocoa by the fireplace or shared with loved ones around the festive table, they’re guaranteed to evoke smiles and warm memories for years to come. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the spirit of the season, and let the magic of Christmas shine bright with every bite of these heavenly pastries! 🎄✨
