The holiday season is a time for coming together with loved ones, sharing treasured traditions, and indulging in delicious treats that warm the heart and soul. One such cherished recipe that adds a touch of sweetness to any festive gathering is the Russian Christmas favorite, Malinovye Pirozhki – delightful Raspberry Pastries. These little pockets of goodness are not only a joy to make but also a delight to savor with a cup of tea or coffee, adding a burst of fruity flavor to the festivities.
Malinovye Pirozhki Raspberry Pastries
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup raspberry preserves or fresh raspberries
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, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the sour cream to the mixture and gently knead the dough until it comes together into a smooth ball. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it is too dry, add a touch more sour cream.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Using a round cookie cutter or a small glass, cut out circles of dough.
5. Place a teaspoon of raspberry preserves or a few fresh raspberries in the center of each circle. Be careful not to overfill to prevent the pastries from bursting during baking.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
7. Transfer the pastries to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a shiny finish.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown.
9. Remove the Malinovye Pirozhki from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving. These pastries are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two.
Enjoy these Malinovye Pirozhki Raspberry Pastries as a delightful addition to your holiday table or as a special treat to share with friends and family. The sweet and tangy flavors of the raspberries encased in buttery pastry are sure to evoke feelings of warmth and joy, making them the perfect accompaniment to festive celebrations throughout the holiday season. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the baking begin!
