A Dream Come True: Piano for Nastya

Instructions

Step 1

Setting the Scene

Nastya has always been passionate about music from a young age. Her journey began in Spanish schools where every child learns to read notes and plays the flute. After mastering the flute, she aspired to play the guitar. She taught herself through video lessons and apps, yet her ultimate dream was to learn the piano.

Step 2

Taking Action

In September, Nastya started attending a music school, which she absolutely loves. Her teachers praise her for quickly grasping new concepts. Early in her studies, it became essential to buy a piano, but a good one was beyond our budget.

Step 3

Preparing for the Exam

Last month, Nastya had her first exam, where she needed to prepare several pieces at home, but we didn't have a piano. It was heart-wrenching to watch her practice by pretending to play on the table, singing the melodies to herself.

Step 4

Making Sacrifices

We made significant budget cuts, saving on food and forgoing some purchases for Vlad, which is not usual for us. Finally, we ordered her a piano, taking advantage of the installment plan options available.

Step 5

The Reward

Now, Nastya can't be separated from her new piano. She constantly explores music online, learning pieces that intrigue her, alongside completing her homework from music school. Despite the challenging preparation environment, she excelled in her exam! What dreams have come true for you?

Servings

Imagine serving these delectable pastries at your next gathering! They can be enjoyed warm from the oven or at room temperature. **Pair them with a fruit compote** for a refreshing twist, or **serve with a drizzle of honey** to enhance their sweetness. 🍯 For a tea party, create a beautiful platter with a variety of fillings—think chocolate, fruit preserves, or savory cheeses. 🎉 Each unique flavor will make your guests swoon with delight! These pastries are not just treats; they’re a conversation starter. So, get ready to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills and an unforgettable presentation! 🍽️

Equipment

Mixing Bowl

A sturdy and spacious mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients. Look for one that’s BPA-free and can hold heat.

We recommend:

Prime

YIHONG 7 Piece Mixing Bowls with Lids for Kitchen, Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set Ideal for Baking, Prepping, Cooking and Serving Food, Nesting Metal Mixing Bowls for Space Saving Storage

4.7

(9,737) YIHONG 7 Piece Mixing Bowls with Lids for Kitchen, Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set Ideal for Baking, Prepping, Cooking and Serving Food, Nesting Metal Mixing Bowls for Space Saving Storage $27.99 $35.99 View details Prime best seller

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(29,369) Pyrex Glass, 3-Piece, 3 PC Mixing Bowl Set $17.53 View details Prime

REGILLER Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 5), Non Slip Colorful Silicone Bottom Nesting Storage Bowls, Polished Mirror Finish For Healthy Meal Mixing and Prepping 1.5-2 - 2.5-3.5 - 7QT (Colorful)

4.8

(8,743) REGILLER Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 5), Non Slip Colorful Silicone Bottom Nesting Storage Bowls, Polished Mirror Finish For Healthy Meal Mixing and Prepping 1.5-2 - 2.5-3.5 - 7QT (Colorful) $26.99 View details

Rolling Pin

A classic kitchen tool that helps you roll out your dough evenly. Choose one that feels comfortable in your hands.

We recommend:

Prime best seller

4.7

(20,621) Farberware Classic Wood Rolling Pin, 17.75-Inch, Natural $12.99 $13.99 View details Prime

4.7

(8,146) Fox Run Polished Marble Rolling Pin with Wooden Cradle, 10-Inch Barrel, White $20.88 View details Prime

French Rolling Pin (17 Inches) –WoodenRoll Pin for Fondant, Pie Crust, Cookie, Pastry, Dough –Tapered Design & Smooth Construction - Essential Kitchen Utensil

4.7

(11,010) French Rolling Pin (17 Inches) –WoodenRoll Pin for Fondant, Pie Crust, Cookie, Pastry, Dough –Tapered Design & Smooth Construction - Essential Kitchen Utensil $9.99 View details

Baking Sheet

Use a high-quality, non-stick baking sheet to ensure that your pastries slide off easily once they’re baked.

We recommend:

Prime

Paterson Paper 16" x 24" Full Size Unbleached Chromium-Free Reusable Baking Parchment Paper Sheets Commercial Bun/Sheet Pan Liners - 1000/Case - 425F - Non-Stick/Grease-Resistant

4.3

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(62,743) Nordic Ware Naturals Half Sheet, 2-Pack, Natural $37.80 View details Prime

Katbite 16x24 inch Heavy Duty Parchment Paper Sheets, 100Pcs Precut Non-Stick Full Parchment Sheets for Baking, Cooking, Grilling, Frying and Steaming, Full Sheet Baking Pan Liners, Commercial Baking

4.8

(13,822) Katbite 16x24 inch Heavy Duty Parchment Paper Sheets, 100Pcs Precut Non-Stick Full Parchment Sheets for Baking, Cooking, Grilling, Frying and Steaming, Full Sheet Baking Pan Liners, Commercial Baking $18.99 $25.99 View details

Parchment Paper

This will keep your pastries from sticking to the pan. Plus, it makes for easy cleanup!

We recommend:

Prime

SMARTAKE 200 Pcs Parchment Paper Baking Sheets, 12x16 Inches Non-Stick Precut Baking Parchment, for Baking Grilling Air Fryer Steaming Bread Cup Cake Cookie and More (Unbleached)

4.8

(13,843) SMARTAKE 200 Pcs Parchment Paper Baking Sheets, 12x16 Inches Non-Stick Precut Baking Parchment, for Baking Grilling Air Fryer Steaming Bread Cup Cake Cookie and More (Unbleached) $16.99 $20.99 View details Prime

katbite 200Pcs 9x13 inch Heavy Duty Parchment Paper Sheets, Precut Parchment Paper for Quarter Sheet Pans Liners, Baking Cookies, Bread, Meat, Pizza, Toaster Oven (9"x13")

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(13,822) katbite 200Pcs 9x13 inch Heavy Duty Parchment Paper Sheets, Precut Parchment Paper for Quarter Sheet Pans Liners, Baking Cookies, Bread, Meat, Pizza, Toaster Oven (9"x13") $13.99 View details Prime

Katbite Unbleached Parchment Paper Baking Sheets, 120Pcs 12x16 Inch Precut Parchment Paper for Baking, Heavy Duty & Non-stick, Half Sheet Paper for Baking, Cooking, Steaming, Oven Paper

4.8

(11,327) Katbite Unbleached Parchment Paper Baking Sheets, 120Pcs 12x16 Inch Precut Parchment Paper for Baking, Heavy Duty & Non-stick, Half Sheet Paper for Baking, Cooking, Steaming, Oven Paper $12.99 View details

Sharp Knife or Pastry Cutter

A sharp tool is necessary for cutting your dough with precision. Invest in a good one to achieve neat edges.

Variations

Gluten-Free: To make these pastries gluten-free, substitute the wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check if the blend includes xanthan gum for better texture! 🌾
Vegan: Want to make it vegan? Replace butter with a plant-based spread and use almond milk instead of regular milk. Your vegan pastry will still come out flaky and delicious! 🌱

Faq

What is the secret to a flaky pastry?
The key is to keep the butter cold and to not overwork the dough. This creates layers that puff up while baking, giving you that lovely flakiness!
How do I know when my dough is ready?
The dough should come together nicely and be slightly tacky, not dry or overly sticky. When it's smooth and pliable, you're good to go!
Can I freeze this pastry dough?
Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. When you're ready to use it, thaw in the fridge overnight.
What fillings work best with flaky pastries?
Sweet options like chocolate, fruit compote, or cream cheese are delicious, while savory fillings such as cheese, spinach, or mushrooms can make for a delightful snack!
Can I use this pastry for pie crusts?
Yes! This pastry dough can be used for both pastries and pie crusts. Just adjust the baking time according to your filling!
How do I store leftover pastries?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness. Reheat in the oven for that freshly-baked taste!