On a cozy morning when you want to treat yourself to a special breakfast or brunch, few things beat the delightful aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting through your home. Today, we’re sharing a recipe for “Hornchen,” a traditional German crescent-shaped pastry that is both flaky and delicious. These buttery delights are perfect alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea, making them a lovely addition to any relaxed weekend morning or holiday brunch spread.
**Hornchen**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup apricot jam
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the flour and butter mixture and stir until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently a few times until it comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
5. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a large circle about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick. Spread the apricot jam evenly over the dough.
6. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into 12 equal triangular segments, like you would a pizza.
7. Starting with the wider end of each triangle, roll the dough towards the point to form a crescent shape. Place the shaped pastries onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake the pastries in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
9. Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Once they are cool enough to handle, dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
The “Hornchen” pastries are best enjoyed warm, so be sure to serve them shortly after baking for the most delightful experience. These crescent-shaped treats are perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in some self-care time with a good book and a steaming cup of your favorite beverage. Enjoy the buttery flakiness and fruity filling of these traditional German pastries as a special touch to your morning routine or weekend gatherings.
