Introduction
Mazurek orzechowy is a traditional Polish dessert, often prepared during holidays, especially Easter. This delightful nut tart features a buttery crust topped with a rich layer of nuts and sweet syrup, creating a perfect combination of textures and flavors. Not only is it a treat for the taste buds, but it also carries cultural significance, making it a cherished recipe in many Polish households.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– For the crust:
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 125g unsalted butter
– 70g powdered sugar
– 1 egg
– A pinch of salt
– For the topping:
– 300g mixed nuts (e.g., walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts)
– 200g honey
– 50g butter
– 100g sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Prep Time
The preparation time for mazurek orzechowy is approximately 30 minutes. This involves making the crust and preparing the topping ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 40 minutes, giving a total time of about 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields one tart, typically serving 8-10 people, making it perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix 250g of flour, 125g of cold butter, and 50g of powdered sugar. Add one egg yolk and a pinch of salt. Use your hands to work the ingredients until they form a smooth dough.
Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Roll Out the Dough
Once chilled, roll the dough on a floured surface to about 0.5 cm thickness. Carefully place it in a tart or rectangular baking pan.
Bake the Crust
Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. Allow to cool completely.
Prepare the Nut Filling
In a saucepan, combine 100g of sugar, 120ml of cream, and 200g of chopped walnuts. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
Combine and Bake the Filling
Pour the nut filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set and golden.
Cool and Decorate
Remove from the oven and let it cool completely. Optionally, decorate the top with melted chocolate or additional nuts.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This pastry is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Substitutions
You can use other nuts such as hazelnuts or almonds if desired.
Gluten-Free Option
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
