Every Christmas, households in the Czech Republic come alive with the aroma of warm spices, sweet gingerbread, and the joy of baking together. In the spirit of embracing holiday traditions and cozying up your home, we present to you a delightful recipe for Perníkový Závin — a Czech Gingerbread Strudel that will fill your kitchen with the scents of the season and bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces.
Perníkový Závin Gingerbread Strudel
Ingredients:
– 2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup of ground walnuts
– 1 cup of honey
– 1 cup of finely crushed gingerbread cookies
– 1/2 cup of dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup of melted butter
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves
– 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 bowl, mix together the ground walnuts, honey, crushed gingerbread cookies, dried cranberries, melted butter, cinnamon, and cloves until well combined.
3. Lay out one sheet of puff pastry on a clean surface and evenly spread the gingerbread mixture over it, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Gently roll the pastry into a log, tucking in the sides as you go. Place the strudel seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Repeat the same process with the second sheet of puff pastry and the remaining gingerbread mixture.
6. Using a sharp knife, make a few slashes on the top of each strudel to allow steam to escape during baking.
7. Bake the Perníkový Závin Gingerbread Strudels in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Once baked, remove the strudels from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.
9. Dust the warm strudels with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
10. Slice the Perníkový Závin into generous portions and serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
This Czech Gingerbread Strudel is not only a delicious dessert but also a symbol of the love and care put into homemade holiday baking. The combination of crunchy walnuts, sweet honey, aromatic spices, and tart cranberries all wrapped up in flaky puff pastry creates a delightful treat that is sure to become a staple on your Christmas table.
Experience the joy of baking this Perníkový Závin with your family and create lasting memories as you share the magic of the season through the warmth of your oven. Embrace the traditions of Czech Christmas baking and infuse your home with the spirit of togetherness and delicious flavors. Enjoy the process, savor the results, and let the delight of the holidays fill your home with warmth and cheer.