Punschkrapfen Punch Filled Pastries
Nothing says Christmas like the delightful aroma of freshly baked treats filling the air. This recipe for Punschkrapfen, or Punch Filled Pastries, is a traditional German Christmas favorite that will warm your heart and add a touch of festive cheer to your holiday season. These sweet and boozy pastries are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on a cozy winter evening by the fireplace. Let’s dive into how to make these delectable treats!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 egg yolk
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup apricot jam
– 2 tablespoons rum
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1-2 tablespoons water
– Pink food coloring (optional)
– Chopped pistachios, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
2. Add the egg yolk and milk to the mixture and gently knead until a soft dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown. Allow them to cool completely.
5. In a small bowl, combine the apricot jam and rum to make the punch filling. Use a toothpick to poke a few holes in the top of each pastry and brush the jam mixture over the pastries.
6. In another bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and water until you achieve a smooth glaze. Add a few drops of pink food coloring if desired to give the glaze a light pink hue.
7. Dip the tops of the pastries into the glaze and place them back on the parchment paper. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top of the glazed pastries for a festive touch.
8. Allow the glaze to set before serving the Punschkrapfen Punch Filled Pastries to your friends and family. Enjoy these delightful treats with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine for the perfect cozy holiday treat!
Embrace the spirit of Christmas with these indulgent Punschkrapfen Punch Filled Pastries that are sure to impress your guests and bring joy to your home this festive season. Happy baking and happy holidays!
