Desserts > Finnish > Joulutortut

Apricot-Pistachio Joulutorttu Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2/3 cup (150g) butter, softened
- 2/3 cup (150g) sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (125ml) milk
- 1/2 cup (100g) chopped dried apricots
- 1/2 cup (50g) chopped pistachios

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch (23cm) round springform pan
- Electric mixer

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the springform pan with butter and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, until fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the milk.
6. Fold in the apricots and pistachios.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow to cool before slicing and serving.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving Size: 8-10 slices

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 11 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Protein: 5 g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: Margarine or coconut oil
- Sugar: Brown sugar or honey
- Flour: Whole wheat flour or almond flour
- Milk: Almond milk or oat milk
- Apricots: Raisins or dried cranberries
- Pistachios: Walnuts or almonds

Variations:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom for a hint of spice
- Substitute the apricots and pistachios with other dried fruits and nuts of your choice
- Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a decadent treat

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar
- Sift the dry ingredients together to ensure a light and fluffy texture
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving

Storage Instructions:
Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

Presentation Ideas:
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream
- Drizzle with melted chocolate

Garnishes:
- Chopped pistachios
- Dried apricots
- Chocolate shavings

Pairings:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Espresso
- Orange juice

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Mixed green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Fruit salad

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, add a few tablespoons of milk to the batter
- If the cake is too wet, add a few tablespoons of flour to the batter

Food Safety Advice:
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature
- Refrigerate any leftovers and consume within 3 days

Food History:
Joulutorttu is a traditional Finnish dessert that is typically served during the Christmas season. It is a sweet pastry filled with dried fruits and nuts, and is often served with a cup of coffee or tea.

Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a sweet and nutty flavor, with hints of apricot and pistachio.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert after a meal
- Enjoy as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea
- Pack in a lunchbox for a sweet treat

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Region: Finnish

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Fruity, Buttery, Spiced