Delicious Raisin Pastries

This delightful raisin pastry recipe promises a delectable mix of textures and flavors, achieving both a flaky yet tender crust with a creamy filling. These pastries, with their rich buttery dough, are a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, thanks to the combination of raisins and a hint of lemon zest. The distinct flavor is accentuated by a subtle touch of cinnamon, making each bite a journey of warmth and comfort. Ideal for a cozy afternoon tea or a festive occasion, these raisin pastries are sure to impress your guests with their intricate layers and vibrant tastes. Easy to make and even easier to fall in love with, this recipe is both beginner-friendly and rewarding for seasoned bakers. The preparation demands a leisurely afternoon, giving the dough ample time to rest and develop its delicate texture. Whether you’re making them as a treat for yourself or as a gift, these pastries offer a delightful escape to a world of indulgence and nostalgia. Customize each pastry with a sprinkle of love and creativity, crafting a masterpiece that’s uniquely yours. Delight in the process, savor the aroma, and immerse yourself in the timeless art of baking.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 200 g all-purpose flour
• 50 g butter
• 200 g sour cream or buttermilk
• 200 g cottage cheese
• 2 eggs
• A handful of raisins
• Sugar to taste
• Cinnamon to taste
• Salt to taste
• Lemon zest

Leavening Mixture:

• 1 tsp potato starch
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp citric acid

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 120 minutes (Preparation: 90 minutes; Cooking: 30 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Sift the flour into a large bowl and add the butter, cut into small pieces. Use your fingers to crumble the flour and butter together until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Prepare the leavening mixture by combining the potato starch, baking soda, and citric acid in a small bowl.
3. Mix 2 teaspoons of the leavening mixture with the sour cream or buttermilk in a separate bowl.
4. Add the cottage cheese, egg yolks, a teaspoon of sugar, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt to the sour cream mixture.
5. Incorporate the creamy mixture into the flour and butter with your hands, kneading gently until a smooth dough forms.
6. Rest the dough for 1 hour in the fridge to allow it to firm up and develop flavor.
7. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thin sheet, approximately 1/8 inch thick.
8. Cut the dough into squares.
9. Place a small piece of butter, a few raisins, and a sprinkle of sugar mixed with cinnamon into each square.
10. Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle, sealing the edges carefully to prevent leaks.
11. Brush the tops of the pastries with the egg whites, beaten lightly until frothy.
12. Arrange the pastries on a baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to prevent sticking.
13. Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
14. Bake the pastries for 30 minutes or until they are golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen.
15. For a darker crust, consider brushing with a mix of egg white and a bit of coffee.
16. Cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
17. Optional: Use remaining dough to make additional snacks like sugar sticks.
18. Share and enjoy these delightful creations with friends and family.
19. Savor each bite, feeling the textures melt in your mouth.
20. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to three days.

Tips

• For a vegan alternative, substitute butter with vegan margarine and eggs with flaxseed meal.
• Swap raisins for dried cranberries or chocolate chips for a new flavor experience.
• Adding a dash of nutmeg can elevate the cinnamon flavor.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 180 per pastry
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 22g

Variations

• Consider using almond flour for a gluten-free option.
• Experiment with different spices such as cardamom or ginger for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with a cup of bold coffee or herbal tea for a perfect afternoon delight.

Best Places

1. Bakery Lorraine - Known for its creative pastries and impeccable flavors. Location: 306 Pearl Pkwy #110, San Antonio, USA.
2. La Pâtisserie des Rêves - Elegant, whimsical pastries that captivate with each bite. Location: 111 Rue de Longchamp, Paris, France.
3. Dominique Ansel Bakery - Home of innovative pastry creations that surprise and delight. Location: 189 Spring St, New York City, USA.
4. Tatte Bakery & Cafe - Offers a balance of refined taste and warmth in every pastry. Location: 70 Charles St, Boston, USA.
5. Bageri Petrus - A cozy corner known for its artisanal approach. Location: Swedenborgsgatan 4B, Stockholm, Sweden.
6. Lune Croissanterie - Famous for flaky, buttery pastries that are a joy to consume. Location: 119 Rose St, Melbourne, Australia.
7. Demel K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäckerei - Rich in tradition, offering timeless Austrian classics. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
8. Pastéis de Belém - The ultimate destination for traditional Portuguese pastries. Location: Rua de Belém nº 84 a 92, Lisbon, Portugal.
9. Conditorei Schober - A charming spot with a vintage flair and exquisite treats. Location: Napfgasse 4, Zurich, Switzerland.
10. Pierre Hermé - A master class in elegance and flavor harmony. Location: 72 Rue Bonaparte, Paris, France.