Pastry Fingers

Pastry Fingers Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Pastry Fingers are a delightful and savory snack that are perfect for any occasion. These crispy and buttery treats are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Pastry Fingers have been a popular snack for centuries, with origins dating back to ancient times. Originally made with simple ingredients like flour, butter, and salt, this recipe has evolved over the years to include various flavors and toppings.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of pastry flour
2 cups of whole wheat flour
1 tsp of salt
3 tbsp of crisco
0.5 cup of butter
cold water
1 slightly beaten egg white for glaze
pine nuts for garnish

How to prepare

First, sift pastry flour, whole wheat flour, and salt into a basin.
Add Crisco and butter, and cut them into the flours with a knife until finely divided.
Then, rub in gently with fingertips and make into a stiff paste with cold water.
Roll out the dough to a thickness of 0.25 inch, and cut it into finger-shaped pieces.
Place the pieces on Criscoed tins and bake in a hot oven for 7 to 10 minutes.
Allow them to cool, then brush them with slightly beaten egg white and sprinkle with salted pine nuts.
Return the tins to the oven to brown the nut meats.

Variations

Add herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika to the dough for added flavor.
Substitute the pine nuts with chopped almonds or walnuts for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use cold water when making the dough to ensure a flaky and tender pastry.

- Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can result in tough pastry fingers.

- For a golden brown finish, brush the pastry fingers with egg white before baking.

- Experiment with different toppings such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or grated cheese for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pastry Fingers can be served as a standalone snack or paired with dips such as hummus or tzatziki.

Cooking Techniques

Use a pastry cutter or two knives to cut the butter and Crisco into the flour for a flaky pastry.

- Bake the pastry fingers on a preheated baking sheet for a crispier texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour for a lighter pastry.

- Use vegetable shortening instead of Crisco for a dairy-free version of this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for Pastry Fingers can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the pastry fingers on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Pastry Fingers with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Pastry Fingers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

- To reheat, place the pastry fingers in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pastry Fingers contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pastry Fingers contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Pastry Fingers contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Pastry Fingers contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Pastry Fingers are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Pastry Fingers contain wheat and dairy allergens.

Summary

Pastry Fingers are a delicious snack that are relatively low in calories and high in fats. They are a great treat to enjoy in moderation.

Summary

Pastry Fingers are a delicious and versatile snack that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a flaky and buttery texture, these savory treats are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my Aunt Mildred’s house. Aunt Mildred was known for her delicious baked goods, and that day she had made a batch of pastry fingers that looked absolutely divine.

I watched as she rolled out the dough, carefully cut it into long strips, and then filled each strip with a sweet almond paste. She then twisted the strips into delicate fingers and baked them until they were golden brown and crispy. The smell that wafted through the kitchen was heavenly, and I couldn’t wait to taste one.

As I bit into the pastry finger, I was immediately hooked. The combination of the flaky pastry and the sweet almond filling was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I begged Aunt Mildred for the recipe, and she laughed and told me that it was a closely guarded family secret.

But I didn’t give up that easily. I spent the next few weeks experimenting in my own kitchen, trying to recreate the pastry fingers that had captured my heart. I tried different dough recipes, experimented with various fillings, and even looked up old pastry cookbooks for inspiration.

Finally, after countless attempts and many failed batches, I stumbled upon the perfect combination of ingredients. The dough was light and flaky, the almond filling was sweet and fragrant, and the finished pastry fingers were just as delicious as Aunt Mildred’s.

I was overjoyed and couldn’t wait to share my creation with my family and friends. I hosted a tea party and served the pastry fingers as the star of the show. My guests raved about them and begged me for the recipe. I was thrilled to finally be able to pass on this delicious treat to others.

Over the years, I have continued to make my pastry fingers for special occasions and whenever I want to treat myself to a little indulgence. I have shared the recipe with my children and grandchildren, who have all fallen in love with these delicate treats.

I often think back to that hot summer day at Aunt Mildred’s house, where I first discovered the magic of pastry fingers. It was a moment that changed my life and set me on a path of culinary exploration and discovery. I am grateful for the inspiration and joy that this recipe has brought me, and I will always hold it close to my heart.

So the next time you find yourself in need of a sweet and savory treat, why not try your hand at making pastry fingers? You never know – you might just discover a new family favorite that will bring you as much happiness as it has brought me.