Category: quick and easy recipe

Lemon Crème Fraîche Cake with Lemon Syrup

Ingredients

For the Cake

• • Butter: 150 g (2/3 cup), softened
  • Salt: a pinch
  • Sugar: 150 g (3/4 cup)

• • Lemon Zest: from 2 lemons
  • Eggs: 3
  • Fluid Crème Fraîche: 150 ml (2/3 cup)

• Flour: 250 g (2 cups)
• Baking Powder: 11 g (approximately 2 1/4 tsp)

For the Lemon Syrup

• • Water: 2 tbsp

• Lemon Juice: 2 tbsp (from 1 lemon)
• Sugar: 2 tbsp

Directions

Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   • • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with a pinch of salt until smooth.

    

   • Add the sugar and lemon zest, and mix until light and fluffy.
2. Add Eggs and Crème Fraîche:
   • • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

    

   • Pour in the crème fraîche and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Add Dry Ingredients:
   • • Sift in the flour and baking powder, then fold gently into the wet mixture until just combined.

    

Bake the Cake

4. Prepare the Pan and Bake:
   • • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
     • Grease a cake pan with butter and pour in the batter, spreading it evenly.

    

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Lemon Syrup

5. Make the Syrup:
   • • In a small saucepan, combine 2 tbsp of water, 2 tbsp of lemon juice, and 2 tbsp of sugar.

    

   • Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat.

Finish and Serve

6. Add Syrup and Serve:
   • • While the cake is still warm, drizzle the lemon syrup over the top, allowing it to soak in for extra moisture and flavor.

    

   • Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

• • Garnish with lemon slices or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
  • Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
  • Add fresh berries on the side for added color and flavor.

• Serve as a light dessert or a refreshing snack.

Cooking Tips

• • Use freshly grated lemon zest for the best flavor.
  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.

• • Be gentle when folding in the flour to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake dense.
  • Adjust the sweetness of the syrup to taste by adding more or less sugar.
  • For extra lemon flavor, add a bit of lemon zest to the syrup.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Lemons: High in vitamin C and antioxidants.
  • Crème Fraîche: Adds calcium and a creamy texture.
  • Eggs: Provide protein and essential vitamins.

Dietary Information

• • Vegetarian: Contains no meat or fish.
  • Nut-Free: Safe for those with nut allergies.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute crème fraîche and butter with dairy-free alternatives.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving Estimate)

• • Calories: ~250 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fat: 12 g

• Protein: 4 g
• Fiber: 1 g

Storage

• • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

• This cake also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry Tart:

• • 500 g of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
  • 500 grams of canned pineapple (drained and chopped)

• • 1 apple (peeled, cored, and sliced thinly)
  • 3 tablespoons of sugar (for the filling)
  • 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (for that warm, comforting flavor)

• 1 egg (for egg wash to give the pastry a golden finish)

For Garnishing:

• • Pomegranate berries (for a colorful and refreshing burst)
  • Black loose leaf tea (optional, for serving to complement the tart)

For Flavoring:

• 1 tablespoon of sugar (for caramelizing the apples slightly)
• 1 teaspoon of grated ginger (optional, for an extra kick of warmth)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This will allow your puff pastry to bake perfectly, becoming golden and crisp.

2. Prepare the Fruit Filling

• • Canned Pineapple: Open the can of pineapple, drain it well, and chop the pineapple into small, bite-sized chunks. If you prefer a smoother filling, you can blend the pineapple slightly, but chunky pieces will add more texture to the tart.
  • Apple: Peel and core the apple. Slice it thinly, ensuring the slices are uniform so that they cook evenly when baking.

3. Season the Fruit

In a small bowl, combine the pineapple chunks, thin apple slices, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir gently to coat the fruits evenly. The sugar will help caramelize the fruit while baking, while the cinnamon adds a cozy, aromatic warmth.

4. Prepare the Puff Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry onto a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured surface. If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, it should be rolled to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm). The pastry should be big enough to accommodate the fruit filling, so ensure the edges are slightly raised to form a border.

5. Assemble the Tart

Place the rolled puff pastry onto a baking sheet. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking. Spread the cinnamon and sugar-seasoned fruit mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving some space around the edges.

6. Egg Wash the Pastry

In a small bowl, whisk the egg. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash. This will help the pastry develop a golden, shiny finish as it bakes.

7. Bake the Tart

Place the tart into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, and the fruit filling is bubbling and caramelized. You may want to check after 20 minutes and if necessary, cover the edges of the pastry with foil to prevent over-browning.

8. Garnish with Pomegranate

Once the tart is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. While it’s still warm, sprinkle pomegranate seeds generously over the top for a burst of color and flavor. The pomegranate not only adds a lovely crunch but also provides a juicy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple and apple.

Discover the Easy Homemade Puff Pastry Secret

You won’t believe how simple and delicious making your own puff pastry can be with this quick method, and no eggs needed!

 Ingredients:

• 100 grams of unsalted butter 
• 1 and 1/2 tsp salt 
• 500 grams of bread flour 
• 200 grams of water 
• 250 grams of margarine or special butter for making puff pastry (available online) 

 Instructions:

1. Mix unsalted butter and salt with the bread flour.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture while kneading until you have a smooth dough.
3. Roll out the dough into a rectangle shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Spread a layer of margarine or special puff pastry butter evenly over two-thirds of the dough.
5. Fold the uncovered third of the dough over the buttered section, then fold the remaining third over the top (similar to folding a letter).
6. Roll out the folded dough into a rectangle again.
7. Repeat the folding process and then chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
8. Roll and fold the dough twice more, chilling for 30 minutes between each fold.
9. Your puff pastry is now ready to be used in your favorite pastry recipes!
10. Enjoy your homemade puff pastry, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t try this method sooner!

Grandma’s Special: A Simple Yet Delicious Dinner Delight!

Picture this: a warm, cozy kitchen filled with the aroma of sizzling sausages and bubbling cheese. That’s the scene every three days in my grandma’s house. Her secret recipe for dinner is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a journey down memory lane. Let me share with you the magic of Grandma’s special dinner.

The Simple Ingredients

• Potatoes – 4
• Eggs – 3
• Salt – 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
• Oregano – 1 teaspoon
• Oil or olive oil – 2 tablespoons
• Onion – 1
• Sausage – 5.3 ounces (150 g)
• Cherry tomatoes – 5.3 ounces (150 g)
• Cheese – 3.5 ounces (100 g)

Preparation Method

1. Boil the potatoes until they’re tender, then plunge them into cold water for a couple of minutes.
2. Grate the potatoes and transfer them to a bowl.
3. Add the eggs to the grated potatoes, and season with salt, black pepper, and oregano. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a baking tray and pop it into a preheated oven at 180°C for 30 minutes.

Adding Flavor

• In a pan, heat up oil or olive oil and sauté finely chopped onion and sausage for about 5 minutes until they’re golden brown and fragrant.
• Add in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they start to soften.
• Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper for that perfect balance of flavors.

Baking Time

• Pour the onion and sausage mixture over the partially baked potatoes.
• Sprinkle generously with grated cheese to add that gooey, cheesy goodness.
• Pop it back into the oven at 180°C for another 20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

Voila! Grandma’s special dinner is ready to be served. Slice it up into hearty portions and serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends.

Why It’s a Family Favorite

What makes Grandma’s dinner so special? It’s not just the delicious taste, but also the memories that come with it. This simple yet comforting dish has been a staple in our family for generations, bringing us together around the dinner table and creating cherished moments that we’ll always treasure.

Health Benefits

Believe it or not, Grandma’s dinner is not just delicious, but also nutritious! Packed with wholesome ingredients like potatoes, eggs, and tomatoes, this dish is a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and protein. Plus, it’s low in calories and high in flavor, making it the perfect guilt-free indulgence for any day of the week.

Conclusion

In a world filled with complicated recipes and busy schedules, Grandma’s special dinner is a reminder that sometimes, the simplest things are the most satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and a whole lot of love, she creates a meal that nourishes both body and soul, bringing joy to everyone lucky enough to taste it.

Savory Meat-Stuffed Bread Rolls

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• • 120 ml warm Water
  • 240 ml warm Milk

• • 15 g (1 tbsp) Sugar
  • 8 g (2 tsp) Yeast
  • 40 g (3 tbsp) Olive Oil

• 540 g All-Purpose Flour
• 6 g (1 tsp) Salt

For the Filling:

• • 2 tbsp Olive Oil

• • 1 tbsp minced Garlic or Paste
  • 200 g (1 medium-sized) Onion (chopped)
  • 400 g minced Meat (mutton, beef, or chicken)

• • 1 tsp Paprika Powder
  • 1 tsp Cumin Powder
  • 1 tsp Oregano

• • 1 tsp Red Pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Turmeric
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper

• • 1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
  • 3 tbsp fresh Coriander (chopped)
  • 1 beaten Egg (for egg wash)

For the Cheese Filling:

• • 400 g (2 cups) Mozzarella Cheese
  • 260 g (1 cup) Feta Cheese / Cottage Cheese
  • 2-3 tbsp fresh green Coriander

• • 1 tsp dried Parsley
  • 1 tsp Aleppo pepper / Red pepper flakes
  • Sesame seeds / Nigella seeds for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. 1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
   2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
   3. Knead the Dough: Mix until a rough dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

1. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

5. 5. Cook the Onions: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onions; sauté until softened and translucent.
   6. Add Minced Meat: Stir in the minced meat of your choice, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned.

5. Season the Meat: Add paprika, cumin, oregano, red pepper, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Stir well and cook for another 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in fresh coriander. Allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

8. 8. Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella cheese, feta cheese, fresh green coriander, dried parsley, and Aleppo pepper. Mix well.
   9. Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions (about 10-12). Roll each piece into a circle (about 5-6 inches in diameter).

8. Add Fillings: Place a spoonful of the meat filling and a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal tightly.
9. Egg Wash: Place the filled rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish. Sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

12. 12. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

12. Bake: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Tips

• • Customize the Filling: Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs based on your preferences. Adding chopped bell peppers or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition.
  • Check the Dough: The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, but not sticky. Adjust the flour as needed while kneading.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the rolls.

Storage

• • Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the oven to restore their texture.

• Freezing: These rolls can be frozen before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Nutritional Facts (Approximate per Roll)

• • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Protein: 18 g

• • Fat: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g

• Sugars: 2 g

Soft and Tasty Scones Scones are a beloved classic in the world of baking

Scones are a beloved classic in the world of baking, known for their tender crumb and delightful taste. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of making the best soft and tasty scones, ensuring a perfect result every time. With detailed instructions, a touch of history, and useful tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking scones that will impress even the most discerning palates.

Ingredients

• • 3 cups plain flour
  • 1/2 level tsp salt

• • 120 g butter
  • 1/2 cup fresh milk
  • 3 tsp baking powder

• • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 cup powdered milk (optional)
  • 1/2 cup white sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla essence
• 2 large eggs

Step-by-Step Instructions to Bake Soft and Tasty Scones

1. Preparing the Oven and Baking Trays

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your scones will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color. While the oven is heating up, grease two baking trays with a bit of butter or line them with parchment paper to prevent the scones from sticking.

2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the plain flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and powdered milk. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and ensures that all the dry ingredients are well combined, leading to a lighter and fluffier scone.

3. Incorporating the Butter

Cut the butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Using your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This step is crucial for creating the crumbly texture that scones are known for. The butter should be well distributed throughout the flour but still retain small pieces that will melt during baking, creating pockets of tenderness.

4. Preparing the Wet Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, white sugar, vanilla essence, and milk. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and well combined.

5. Combining the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough scones. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

6. Shaping the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead it gently a few times to bring it together, then shape it into a round. Roll the dough out to a thickness of about 2.5 cm (1 inch). Using a 7.5 cm (3 inch) biscuit cutter or a small glass, cut out the scones and place them on the prepared baking trays. Gather any scraps of dough, gently knead them together, and cut out additional scones.

7. Adding the Finishing Touches

In a small bowl, beat the remaining egg. Brush the top of each scone with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden color when baked.

8. Baking the Scones

Place the baking trays in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center of a scone; if it comes out clean, the scones are ready.

9. Cooling and Serving

Transfer the scones to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. Scones are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, with a dollop of clotted cream and a spoonful of your favorite jam. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Tips for Perfect Scones

1. 1. Use Cold Butter: Ensuring your butter is cold helps to create the flaky texture in scones. Warm butter will melt too quickly and result in dense scones.

1. 1. Do Not Overmix: Overworking the dough can develop the gluten in the flour too much, making the scones tough. Mix until just combined for the best results.
   2. Handle Dough Gently: When kneading and shaping the dough, handle it as gently as possible to maintain a light texture.
   3. Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your scones as they bake. Depending on your oven, they may need a little more or less time. The key is to bake them until they are golden brown.

Conclusion

With this detailed guide, you are now equipped to bake the best soft and tasty scones right in your kitchen. By following these steps and tips, you’ll achieve scones that are tender, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for afternoon tea, breakfast, or a delightful snack, these scones are sure to impress.