Vosi Hnizda

Vosi Hnizda Recipe from Czech Republic - Delicious Vanilla Wafer Dessert

Region / culture: Czech Republic | Servings: 12

Introduction

Vosi Hnizda is a traditional Czech dessert that translates to "Wasp Nests" in English. These sweet treats are made with a delicious combination of vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, butter, rum, and cocoa. The unique shape of the dessert resembles a wasp nest, hence the name.

History

Vosi Hnizda has been a popular dessert in Czech cuisine for many years. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own twist to the classic dish. These sweet treats are often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays.

Ingredients

Hive

1.25 cups crushed round vanilla wafers or round toddler vanilla wafers
25 whole round vanilla wafers
1.25 cups powdered sugar
7 tbsp soft room temperature butter
2 tbsp rum
2 tbsp water
2 tbsp cocoa (Hershey's pure baking cocoa)

Filling

0.75 cups powdered sugar
5.5 tbsp soft room temperature butter
1 egg yolk, from a pasteurized egg (or immerse an unpasteurized egg in boiling water for 1 minute, cool immediately)
2 tbsp rum

How to prepare

Set aside 25 whole vanilla wafers.
In a medium-sized bowl, crush enough vanilla wafers to make 1.25 cups of rough "flour".
Add powdered sugar, butter, rum, water, and cocoa to the bowl.
Mix the ingredients together.
In a small bowl, combine the filling ingredients.
Dust the inside of the bee hive form with powdered sugar, then press a small ball of dough into it.
Make a hole in the dough using your finger or the end of a wooden spoon.
Using a spoon, fill the hole with enough filling to fill the cavity.
Carefully tap the hive out of the form and place it on top of a whole vanilla wafer.
Experiment to determine the amount of powdered sugar needed to dust the form, ensuring the hive slips out easily.
If you don't have a bee hive form, use an empty chamber from a grocery store cardboard egg carton.
Store the recipe in a cool place, keeping in mind that the filling contains raw egg.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruits to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the Vosi Hnizda for a decadent touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to crush the vanilla wafers finely to achieve a smooth texture in the dough.

- Dusting the bee hive form with powdered sugar will help the dough release easily.

- Experiment with the amount of filling to find the perfect balance for your taste preferences.

- Store the Vosi Hnizda in a cool place to keep the filling fresh.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Vosi Hnizda as a sweet treat after a traditional Czech meal or as a special dessert for a holiday celebration.

Cooking Techniques

Use a bee hive form or a cardboard egg carton chamber to shape the Vosi Hnizda.

- Press the dough firmly into the form to create a sturdy base for the filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute almond extract for the rum for a different flavor profile.

- Use gluten-free vanilla wafers for a gluten-free version of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the Vosi Hnizda ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Vosi Hnizda on a decorative platter and garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Vosi Hnizda with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Vosi Hnizda in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Vosi Hnizda contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Vosi Hnizda contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Vosi Hnizda contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Vosi Hnizda contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Vosi Hnizda is not a significant source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Vosi Hnizda contains dairy and gluten from the vanilla wafers.

Summary

Vosi Hnizda is a sweet dessert that is moderate in carbohydrates and fats, making it a delicious treat to enjoy in moderation.

Summary

Vosi Hnizda is a delightful Czech dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. With a sweet and buttery filling encased in a crunchy vanilla wafer shell, these treats are perfect for any special occasion. Enjoy the unique flavors and textures of Vosi Hnizda with this traditional recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Vosi Hnizda. It was a cold winter day and I was visiting my dear friend Klara in her cozy little cottage in the countryside. Klara was known far and wide for her delicious baking, and she had promised to teach me one of her most coveted recipes that day.

As we sat by the crackling fire, Klara pulled out a weathered old cookbook from her kitchen shelf. She flipped through the pages until she found the recipe for Vosi Hnizda, a traditional Czech pastry filled with sweetened cottage cheese and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. My mouth watered just looking at the picture in the cookbook.

Klara explained that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The recipe held a special place in her heart, and she was thrilled to pass it on to me.

We gathered the ingredients and got to work in Klara's warm and inviting kitchen. The scent of baking bread filled the air as we mixed the dough, rolled it out, and cut it into small circles. Klara showed me how to carefully fold each circle around a dollop of sweetened cottage cheese, creating a beautiful nest-like shape.

As the pastries baked in the oven, Klara shared stories of her grandmother and the many hours they had spent together in the kitchen, baking and laughing and sharing secrets. I listened intently, savoring every word and feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a wise and talented baker.

Finally, the pastries were ready, golden brown and fragrant. Klara sprinkled them with powdered sugar and placed them on a platter, arranging them in a perfect circle. I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of our labor.

One bite of the Vosi Hnizda and I was transported to a place of warmth and comfort. The pastry was light and flaky, the filling creamy and slightly sweet. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, a true testament to the skill and love that had gone into making it.

Klara smiled at me as I took another bite, her eyes twinkling with pride. She knew that she had passed on something special that day, a piece of her family's history and tradition that would live on through me.

I left Klara's cottage that afternoon with a full belly and a heart bursting with gratitude. I couldn't wait to share the recipe for Vosi Hnizda with my own family, to pass on the knowledge and love that Klara had so generously given to me.

And so, every time I make Vosi Hnizda in my own kitchen, I remember that cold winter day with fondness and gratitude. I remember Klara's gentle hands guiding mine, her laughter filling the room, and the delicious pastries that we created together. And I feel a deep connection to the past, to the generations of women who came before me and who will continue to inspire me in the kitchen for years to come.