Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

420 grams all-purpose flour (3 cups)
200 grams butter (1 cup)
200 grams sour cream (7 ounces)
3 egg yolks (2 for dough, 1 for glaze)
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
We recommend:

Filling Ingredients

150 grams sugar (3/4 cup)
100 grams all-purpose flour (about 1 cup)
100 grams butter (1/2 cup, room temperature)
Vanilla extract to taste
50 grams chocolate (1.5 ounces)
50 grams dried plums (prunes) or other dried fruits
50 grams nuts (1/3 cup)
We recommend:

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Begin to incorporate the cold butter by grating it into the flour mixture or cutting it with a fork until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Add the sour cream, egg yolks, sugar, salt, and a hint of vanilla extract. Mix gently until a soft and pliable dough forms.

Do not overwork the dough; it should remain light and airy. After mixing, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

Step 2

Make the Filling

For the first filling, mix the sugar, flour, butter, and a splash of vanilla extract in a bowl. Combine thoroughly until crumbly.

For the second filling, chop the chocolate, dried plums, and nuts. Set aside. You will use this mixture later to layer with the main filling.

Step 3

Assemble the Gata

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a large sheet, ensuring it's thin for maximum flaky layers. The thinner, the better!

Spread the first filling evenly across the dough, followed by the second mixture of chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits.

Begin to roll the dough carefully, creating a log shape. If you don't have a serrated knife, a regular knife will work just fine. Make sure it's tightly rolled for even baking.

Step 4

Bake the Gata

Preheat your oven to 190 degrees Celsius (375 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the rolled gata on a baking sheet and brush the top with the remaining whisked egg for a shiny glaze.

Bake in the oven for approximately 30 minutes or until the top is a beautiful golden brown.

Once finished, let it cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy your delicious and aromatic Royal Gata!

Servings

When it comes to serving your Royal Gata, the options are endless! For a cozy afternoon treat, pair it with a cup of steaming tea or coffee ☕. The flaky layers and sweet filling will make your afternoon break feel special.

If you’re hosting friends or family, consider serving it alongside a vibrant fruit platter 🍓🍈, which will not only add color but also a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the Gata.

For a festive touch during special occasions, drizzling some honey or serving it with homemade vanilla ice cream 🍦 can elevate the experience, making it even more indulgent. Just imagine this delightful pastry melting in your mouth as you savor every layer! What could be better?

Equipment

Variations

If you're looking to adapt this recipe, we've got you covered! For a **gluten-free version**, simply substitute regular flour with a high-quality gluten-free blend. Ensure you check the blend contains binding agents to hold the dough together.
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For our **vegan friends**, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and swap the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water for binding. The sour cream can be substituted with coconut yogurt. This way, you won’t miss out on any of the deliciousness! 🌱

Faq

  • Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

    Yes, all-purpose flour will work just fine, but cake flour can yield a lighter texture.

  • What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

    If the dough is too sticky, gradually add a little more flour while kneading until you reach the desired consistency.

  • How can I tell when my Gata is done baking?

    Your Gata is ready when it turns a beautiful golden brown color and emits a delicious aroma!

  • Can I make the filling in advance?

    Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before spreading it on the dough.

  • Is it okay to freeze the Royal Gata?

    Yes, you can freeze the baked Gata. Wrap it tightly and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

  • How do I reheat the frozen Gata?

    To reheat, simply place it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Enjoy it as if it were freshly baked!

Nutrition facts

Royal Gata Recipe: A Delicious Armenian Delight
Recipe Yield:8 servings
Calories:Approximately 300-400 calories per serving, depending on the filling used.
Calories (Min - Max):300 - 400
Total Fat:20g
Saturated Fat:10g
Protein:4g
Total Carbohydrate:30g
Total Sugars:10g