Desserts > Finnish > Joulutorttus

Chocolate-Cherry Joulutorttu Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup dried cherries

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch tart pan
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Baking sheet

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch tart pan with butter and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Divide the dough in half and roll each half out on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of 1/4 inch.
6. Line the tart pan with one of the rolled-out dough circles, pressing it into the edges and trimming off any excess.
7. Sprinkle the chocolate chips and dried cherries over the bottom of the tart pan.
8. Place the second rolled-out dough circle over the top of the tart pan and press the edges together to seal.
9. Cut several slits in the top of the tart to allow steam to escape.
10. Place the tart pan on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
11. Allow the tart to cool before slicing and serving.

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

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 31 g
Protein: 4 g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the all-purpose flour, you can substitute whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour.
- For the butter, you can substitute vegan butter or coconut oil.
- For the granulated sugar, you can substitute coconut sugar or maple syrup.
- For the semi-sweet chocolate chips, you can substitute dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips.
- For the dried cherries, you can substitute dried cranberries or raisins.

Variations:
- For a more decadent dessert, you can add a layer of melted chocolate between the two layers of dough.
- For a more festive dessert, you can add a layer of chopped nuts between the two layers of dough.
- For a more flavorful dessert, you can add a layer of orange zest between the two layers of dough.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to roll out the dough to an even thickness of 1/4 inch.
- Make sure to press the edges of the dough together firmly to seal.
- Make sure to cut several slits in the top of the tart to allow steam to escape.

Storage Instructions:
The Chocolate-Cherry Joulutorttu can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
The Chocolate-Cherry Joulutorttu can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
The Chocolate-Cherry Joulutorttu can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

Garnishes:
The Chocolate-Cherry Joulutorttu can be garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or a sprig of fresh mint.

Pairings:
The Chocolate-Cherry Joulutorttu pairs well with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.

Suggested Side Dishes:
The Chocolate-Cherry Joulutorttu can be served with a side of fresh fruit or a salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together.
- If the dough is too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it comes together.
- If the tart is overbaked, reduce the oven temperature and bake for a few minutes less.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the tart before serving. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F.

Food History:
The Chocolate-Cherry Joulutorttu is a traditional Finnish dessert that is typically served during the Christmas season.

Flavor Profiles:
The Chocolate-Cherry Joulutorttu has a sweet and rich flavor with notes of chocolate and cherries.

Serving Suggestions:
The Chocolate-Cherry Joulutorttu can be served as a dessert or as a snack.

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Region: Finnish

Taste: Sweet, Chocolatey, Fruity, Nutty, Buttery