Desserts > Finnish > Christmas

Caramel-Walnut Joulutorttu Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons brandy
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom
- Electric mixer
- Rolling pin

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg, milk, brandy, and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to a 12-inch circle. Place in prepared tart pan and press into edges.
6. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the bottom of the tart.
7. Pour caramel sauce over walnuts.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Let cool completely before serving.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 5g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Coconut oil can be used in place of butter.
- Maple syrup or honey can be used in place of granulated sugar.
- Non-dairy milk can be used in place of regular milk.
- Orange juice or apple cider can be used in place of brandy.

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or raisins for extra flavor.
- Substitute pecans or almonds for the walnuts.
- Use dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips instead of caramel sauce.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.
- Let the tart cool completely before serving.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

Garnishes:
- Chopped walnuts
- Caramel sauce
- Whipped cream

Pairings:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Hot chocolate
- Coffee

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Salad
- Fruit

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the tart is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of melted butter to the dough.
- If the tart is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to the dough.

Food Safety Advice:
- Store the tart in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Refrigerate leftovers and consume within 5 days.

Food History:
Joulutorttu is a Finnish pastry traditionally served during the Christmas season. It is made with a buttery pastry dough and filled with walnuts and caramel sauce.

Flavor Profiles:
This tart has a sweet and nutty flavor with notes of butter and brandy.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

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Region: Finnish

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Buttery, Caramelized