Desserts > Cookies > German

Date Nussecke Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup ground almonds
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup date filling (recipe below)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Date Filling:
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, ground almonds, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg yolk and vanilla extract; mix well.

4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix until a dough forms.

5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit the prepared baking pan. Transfer the dough to the pan and press it down evenly.

6. Spread the date filling over the dough and sprinkle chopped walnuts on top.

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.

9. Cut into triangles or squares and serve.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
Makes 9-12 pieces

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 230
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 60mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 14g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almonds can be substituted with hazelnuts or pecans.
- Walnuts can be substituted with any other nuts of your choice.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.

Variations:
- Add a layer of chocolate on top of the date filling before sprinkling with nuts.
- Replace the date filling with apricot or raspberry jam.
- Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming it with sugar to ensure a smooth mixture.
- Chill the dough for 10-15 minutes before rolling it out to prevent it from sticking to the rolling pin.

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

Reheating Instructions:
To reheat, place the Date Nussecke in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the Date Nussecke on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a dollop of whipped cream.

Pairings:
Serve the Date Nussecke with a cup of coffee or tea.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Pair the Date Nussecke with a fruit salad or a cheese plate.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes manageable.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure the date filling is cooled before spreading it on the dough to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.

Food History:
Nussecke is a traditional German pastry that originated in the 19th century. It is a popular treat during Christmas time.

Flavor Profiles:
The Date Nussecke has a buttery and nutty flavor with a sweet and fruity filling.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Date Nussecke as a dessert or a sweet snack.

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Region: German

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Chewy, Caramelized