Lemon Jam Pastries

These delightful Lemon Jam Pastries are a perfect combination of soft dough and sweet-tangy filling. Made with fresh lemon zest and filled with your choice of jam, these pastries are a wonderful treat for any time of the day. The dough is enriched with butter and eggs, which gives it a rich flavor and tender texture. Baking them fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. They are easy to make and can be customized with different jams or marmalades depending on your taste. These pastries are also a wonderful option for breakfast or as a snack with afternoon tea. With a golden-brown exterior and a soft, jam-filled center, each bite is a burst of flavors. Following this simple recipe will provide satisfying results that everyone will enjoy. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 400 g flour
• 100 g sugar
• 20 g yeast
• 100 g butter
• 200 ml milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 lemon (zest)
• Jam
• Salt

Preparation Time

• Total: 45 minutes prep, 30 minutes baking

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Warm the Milk: In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk until it is warm but not boiling.
2. Activate the Yeast: Pour the warm milk into a large bowl, add the yeast, and let it sit for a few minutes until it starts to bubble.
3. Add Ingredients: Add the melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt to the milk and yeast mixture.
4. Incorporate Eggs and Lemon: Beat 1 egg into the mixture along with the grated zest of one lemon, stirring until combined.
5. Mix the Dough: Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
8. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the risen dough to a thickness of 5-7 mm.
9. Shape the Pastries: Using a round cutter or glass, cut out circles approximately 7 cm in diameter.
10. Fill with Jam: Place a tablespoon of firm jam in the center of half of the circles.
11. Seal the Pastries: Cover each jam-topped circle with another dough circle and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
12. Prepare for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the pastries on it, giving them some space to expand.
13. Final Rise: Allow the prepared pastries to rise slightly while preheating the oven to 200°C.
14. Egg Wash: Beat the second egg and brush it lightly over the tops of the pastries.
15. Bake the Pastries: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown.
16. Cool and Dust with Sugar: Once baked, remove from the oven, let them cool slightly, and dust with powdered sugar.
17. Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy warm or at room temperature, savoring the soft texture and tangy filling.
18. Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container for up to three days for optimal freshness.
19. Reheat: Reheat gently in the oven if enjoying the next day to restore freshness.
20. Lemon Glaze (Optional): Drizzle pastries with a lemon glaze for an extra citrus kick.

Tips

• Jam Choice: Use a firm jam to prevent it from leaking during baking.
• Yeast Activation: Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to activate yeast without killing it.
• Egg Alternative: For a richer flavor, try using cream for egg wash instead of beaten egg.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 per pastry
• Protein: 6g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbs: 35g

Variations

• Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
• Vegan Option: Substitute butter with a plant-based oil and use almond milk.

Serving Suggestions

• Tea Time: Pair with a cup of Earl Grey tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Breakfast: Serve with fresh fruit and yogurt for breakfast.

Best Places

1. Ladurée - Famous for its pastries, offering a sweet indulgence. Location: Paris, France.
2. Dominique Ansel Bakery - Known for inventive French pastries. Location: New York City, USA.
3. Patisserie Sadaharu AOKI - Elegant pastries with a Japanese twist. Location: Tokyo, Japan.
4. Fouet - Offers a wide variety of luxury pastries. Location: Barcelona, Spain.
5. Bakery 1900 - Classic pastries with a modern interpretation. Location: Berlin, Germany.
6. Balthazar Bakery - Renowned for its pastries and breads. Location: London, UK.
7. Pastelaria Alcôa - Traditional Portuguese sweets and pastries. Location: Lisbon, Portugal.
8. Flûte Enchantée - Excellent selection of authentic French pastries. Location: Montreal, Canada.
9. Maitre Choux - Famous for choux pastries. Location: London, UK.
10. Pierre Hermé - Luxury bakery known for macarons and pastries. Location: Paris, France.