Perfect Russian Walnut Cookies: Melting in Your Mouth!

Mouth-watering Walnut Pastry with Caramel Filling

Ingredients

Dough

2 eggs
1/2 cup (100 grams) sugar
1 cup (250 grams) butter (no margarine!)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vinegar (9%)
2.5 cups (320 grams) all-purpose flour

Filling

1 can (400 grams or 14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

Equipment

NUT-SHAPED MOLD
This is essential for baking our unique walnut-shaped pastries. Ensure it's well-greased with vegetable oil before placing the dough inside to avoid any sticking.
MIXING BOWLS
You'll need separate bowls for mixing your egg whites and yolks. Stainless steel or glass bowls work best.
ELECTRIC MIXER
A handy tool for easily whisking your egg whites and combining your dough ingredients. A handheld or stand mixer will do the job.
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Used to beat the egg whites until they form soft peaks, crucial for a airy and light dough.
SAUCEPAN
To boil your sweetened condensed milk, transforming it into a rich caramel filling. Don't forget to periodically add water to maintain consistency.

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Caramel

Start by boiling the sweetened condensed milk for 1.5 hours from the moment it begins to boil, periodically adding water.

Step 2

Make the Dough

Separate the egg yolks from the whites.

In a mixing bowl, combine the egg yolks with the sugar and mix until the color turns light.

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites for about 2 minutes.

Add the whisked egg whites, butter, and baking soda to the yolk mixture, then add the vinegar to activate the baking soda. Mix well.

Gradually add the flour and knead the dough until it's smooth and forms a large ball.

Step 3

Bake the Pastries

Roll the dough into small, even-sized balls.

Preheat your nut-shaped mold (or walnut-maker), grease it with vegetable oil, and place the dough balls inside.

Bake until golden brown, then let the pastries cool.

Step 4

Fill the Pastries

Once cooled, add a teaspoon of the caramel filling to each half-pastry.

Join two halves together to form a whole walnut-shaped pastry.

Step 5

Enjoy!

These pastries are a family favorite, made for over 20 years. They melt in your mouth and can't be compared to store-bought ones. Enjoy!

Servings

These Caramel Walnut Pastries are not just scrumptious to eat but also a **feast for the eyes**. Serve them on a beautiful platter to complement their golden-brown color and inviting texture.

🌟 Pair with Coffee or Tea: These treats are perfect with your favorite hot beverage. The caramel and buttery dough blend seamlessly with a warm cup of tea or coffee.

🌟 Dessert Platter: Add these pastries to a diverse array of desserts. Combine them with fruit tarts, mini cheesecakes, and chocolate truffles for an elegant dessert spread.

🌟 Gift Box: Place these little delights in a cute box with tissue paper and a ribbon. A handmade gift is an excellent way to show someone you care.

🌟 Kiddie Party Hit: These bite-sized pastries are a hit among kids too! Arrange them in fun shapes or atop a cupcake stand to catch everyone’s attention. 🎉

Variations

Looking to adapt these pastries to fit dietary restrictions? **Fear not!** Here's how you can make gluten-free and vegan variations:

🌱 Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure your baking soda is also gluten-free for a fully celiac-friendly treat.

🌱 Vegan: Swap out eggs with a flaxseed mix (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg) and use vegan butter. Opt for a dairy-free condensed milk substitute to make the caramel filling.

Faq

What can I use instead of a nut-shaped mold?
You can use small muffin tins or mini-cupcake pans, but the shape will differ slightly.
How do I know when the pastries are done baking?
Bake until golden brown. You can gently tap them to see if they have a slight crisp to indicate doneness.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze the caramel filling?
Yes, the caramel filling can be frozen. Just make sure you defrost it at room temperature before use.
What are some creative fillings I can try?
Nutella, fruit jams, or even a custard filling can be exciting alternatives to the caramel filling.
Do I need to grease the mold every time?
For the best results and to prevent sticking, lightly grease your mold before baking each batch.