Have you ever dreamed of enjoying the sweet and tangy flavors of Greece during Christmas time? Look no further, as we bring you a delightful recipe straight from the heart of Greek holiday traditions. Unveiling our charming and festive “Pites Me Gliko Portokali Sweet Orange Pastries” – a scrumptious treat that will warm your home and your heart with each bite.
**Pites Me Gliko Portokali Sweet Orange Pastries**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ cup sugar
– 1 stick unsalted butter, room temperature
– Zest of 2 oranges
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 egg
– ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. **Cream the Butter:** In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add Flavor:** Gradually mix in the orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice to the butter mixture. Combine well.
5. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients:** Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a cohesive dough forms.
6. **Shape the Pastries:** Roll the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in between each ball.
7. **Form Indentations:** Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press down the center of each ball to create an indentation for the filling.
8. **Fill the Pastries:** Spoon a small amount of orange marmalade or your preferred orange jam into the center of each pastry.
9. **Bake to Perfection:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown.
10. **Cool and Dust:** Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
11. **Serve and Enjoy:** These delightful Pites Me Gliko Portokali Sweet Orange Pastries are best enjoyed warm with a cup of tea or coffee. Share them with loved ones or savor them as a festive treat during the holiday season.
12. **Store:** Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for later enjoyment.
Let the aromas of freshly baked pastries and sweet oranges fill your kitchen, creating a cozy and cheerful atmosphere perfect for the holiday season. Embrace the festive spirit and transport yourself to the enchanting world of Greek Christmas traditions with every delightful bite of these Pites Me Gliko Portokali Sweet Orange Pastries. Enjoy the magic of baking and sharing these delectable treats with family and friends, making your Christmas celebrations even more memorable and heartwarming. Happy baking!
