Yeasted Fancy Cakes
Yeasted Fancy Cakes Recipe from Romania
Introduction
Yeasted Fancy Cakes are a traditional Eastern European dessert that are both delicious and visually appealing. These crescent-shaped cakes are made with a yeast dough that is rolled in ground walnuts and sugar before being baked to golden perfection.
History
This recipe has been passed down through generations in Eastern European countries such as Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia. Yeasted Fancy Cakes are often made for special occasions such as weddings, holidays, and celebrations.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Soak the yeast in milk, then add yolks, butter, salt, and flour.
- Knead the mixture into a stiff dough.
- Place the dough into a cloth or fabric sack, tying it well but leaving room for the dough to rise.
- Submerge the prepared dough into a large pot filled with cold water and let it sit for 4 – 5 hours.
- The dough tied in the cloth will rise above the water.
- Remove the dough from the cloth and roll it into a thin sheet.
- Cut the sheet into strips that are 3 inches long and 1 inch wide.
- Roll each strip in egg white, then in a mixture of ground walnuts and sugar, shaping them into crescent dumplings as follows: hold the strip by the ends with both hands.
- Twist one end in one direction and the other end in the opposite direction, then bend to form a crescent shape.
- Place the crescents onto a greased baking sheet and bake at medium heat.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the walnut and sugar mixture for a warm and spicy flavor.
- Drizzle the baked cakes with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finishing touch.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to let the dough rise for at least 4-5 hours to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
- Be gentle when shaping the crescents to prevent them from losing their shape.
- Keep an eye on the cakes while baking to prevent them from burning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Yeasted Fancy Cakes with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Cooking Techniques
The key to making perfect Yeasted Fancy Cakes is to let the dough rise properly and to shape the crescents gently and carefully.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have lard, you can use butter or vegetable shortening as a substitute. You can also use almonds or hazelnuts instead of walnuts for a different flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the dough for Yeasted Fancy Cakes ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Presentation Ideas
Arrange the baked cakes on a decorative platter and dust them with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Enjoy Yeasted Fancy Cakes with a glass of sweet dessert wine or a cup of hot cocoa for a delightful pairing.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Yeasted Fancy Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warm.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Yeasted Fancy Cakes contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Yeasted Fancy Cakes contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Yeasted Fancy Cakes contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Yeasted Fancy Cakes contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Yeasted Fancy Cakes are a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and phosphorus.
Alergens
This recipe contains eggs, milk, and nuts. It may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.
Summary
Yeasted Fancy Cakes are a delicious treat that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats. They also provide a good amount of proteins and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Yeasted Fancy Cakes are a delightful and traditional Eastern European dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time. With a light and fluffy texture and a delicious walnut and sugar coating, these crescent-shaped cakes are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly through the kitchen window as I rummaged through an old wooden chest that held a myriad of recipes collected over the years. As I sifted through the yellowed pages, my eyes fell upon a tattered piece of paper tucked in between two well-worn cookbooks.
Curious, I carefully unfolded the paper and my eyes widened in delight as I read the faded handwriting. It was a recipe for Yeasted Fancy Cakes, a delicacy I had never heard of before. The instructions were simple yet detailed, and I could almost taste the sweet, fluffy cakes as I read through the ingredients and method.
I knew immediately that I had to try making these Yeasted Fancy Cakes for myself. I could already envision the look of delight on my family's faces as they bit into the soft, pillowy cakes, savoring the rich flavors and aromas that would surely fill the air.
Excited, I wasted no time in gathering the necessary ingredients from the pantry and setting to work in the kitchen. I followed the recipe to the letter, carefully measuring out each ingredient and mixing them together in a large bowl. The dough came together smoothly, like silk beneath my hands, and I kneaded it until it was soft and elastic.
After letting the dough rise for the specified amount of time, I divided it into small portions and shaped them into round balls. I placed them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, covered them with a clean kitchen towel, and left them to rise once more. As I watched the dough puff up beautifully, I knew that I was on the right track.
When the Yeasted Fancy Cakes had doubled in size, I carefully placed them in the oven and watched through the glass window as they baked to a golden brown perfection. The sweet aroma wafting from the oven was almost too much to bear, and I couldn't wait to sample the fruits of my labor.
As I pulled the cakes out of the oven and allowed them to cool slightly, I admired their delicate appearance and the way they seemed to beckon me with their irresistible scent. I couldn't resist taking a bite, and as I did, a wave of pure bliss washed over me.
The Yeasted Fancy Cakes were everything I had hoped for and more. The texture was light and airy, with a subtle sweetness that lingered on my taste buds. I knew that this recipe was a treasure, one that I would cherish and pass down to future generations.
From that day on, Yeasted Fancy Cakes became a staple in my kitchen. I would make them for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply as a treat for myself on a lazy afternoon. Each time I baked them, I would remember the moment I first discovered the recipe and the joy it had brought me.
As I grew older and my hands grew weary, I knew that one day I would have to pass on the tradition of making Yeasted Fancy Cakes to someone else. I hoped that they would find as much joy and satisfaction in baking them as I had, and that the recipe would continue to bring happiness to those who tasted its deliciousness.
And so, as I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this beloved recipe, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment and fulfillment. The memory of finding this recipe for the first time may have been years ago, but its legacy lives on in the hearts and stomachs of those who continue to enjoy its sweet, yeasty goodness.
Categories
| Cake Recipes | Romanian Desserts | Romanian Recipes | Walnut Meal Recipes | Yeast Recipes |