Starlight Prune Pinwheels: A Scandinavian Holiday Delight

Finnish Prune Tarts Recipe

🕒 Cook Time: 10 minutes
🕒 Prep Time: 45 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 55 minutes

Description:

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Finnish Prune Tarts, a cherished Christmas treat beloved by the Finnish community, especially when paired with a steaming cup of coffee. Despite any preconceived notions about prunes, these tarts are surprisingly delicious, offering a unique blend of sweet and tangy flavors. (Note: The bake time does not include the overnight dough chill time.)

Ingredients:

• 3 to 3 1/2 cups flour
• 1 cup butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1/4 cup cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 3 cups dried pitted prunes
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, blend together flour, butter, salt, cottage cheese, and cream cheese using a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Add milk gradually to soften the dough as needed.
   • Form the dough into 4 small or 2 large balls.
   • Cover the dough and chill it overnight in the refrigerator.

2. Prepare Filling:

   • In a saucepan, cook the dried pitted prunes in water until they become soft.
   • Drain the cooked prunes and then press them through a wire strainer or puree them in a blender until smooth.
   • Add sugar to the pureed prunes and mix well until fully incorporated.

3. Assemble Tarts:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Roll out the chilled dough into a large square and then cut it into 3-inch squares.
   • Place a mound of the prune filling in the center of each square.
   • Split each corner of the square from the top to within 1/2 inch of the center.
   • Fold one half of each corner towards the center to form a star or pinwheel shape.

4. Bake:

   • Place the assembled tarts on an ungreased baking sheet.
   • Optionally, sprinkle coarse grain sugar over the tarts for added sweetness.
   • Let the assembled tarts stand for 10 minutes before baking.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the tarts are light golden brown in color. They should still be relatively pale.
   • Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

Enjoy these Finnish Prune Tarts as a delightful treat during the holiday season or any time you crave a taste of Scandinavian sweetness paired with the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee.