Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2/3 cup (150g) butter
- 2/3 cup (150g) caster sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2/3 cup (90g) self-raising flour
- 2/3 cup (90g) ground hazelnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk
Special Equipment Needed:
- Electric mixer
- Baking tray
- Baking paper
- 2-inch (5cm) round cookie cutter
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream together butter and sugar in a bowl with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add the flour, ground hazelnuts, vanilla extract and milk.
4. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
5. Line a baking tray with baking paper.
6. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch (6mm) thick and cut out 2-inch (5cm) rounds with a cookie cutter.
7. Place the rounds on the baking tray and bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving Size: Makes 12 fancies
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 150
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: margarine or coconut oil
- Caster sugar: granulated sugar or coconut sugar
- Self-raising flour: plain flour + 1 teaspoon (5ml) baking powder
- Ground hazelnuts: ground almonds or ground walnuts
- Milk: almond milk or oat milk
Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup (60ml) of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate version.
- Add 1/4 cup (60ml) of dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity version.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) of ground cinnamon for a spiced version.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting.
- Add a pinch of salt to the dough for extra flavour.
- Chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before rolling out for easier handling.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the fancies on a plate with a dusting of icing sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts or a dollop of whipped cream.
Pairings:
Pair with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too crumbly, add a tablespoon (15ml) of milk at a time until a smooth dough forms.
- If the fancies are too dry, add a tablespoon (15ml) of melted butter to the dough.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting and that all utensils used are clean and sanitized.
Food History:
Hazelnuts have been used in baking for centuries, with recipes for hazelnut cakes and pastries dating back to the Middle Ages.
Flavor Profiles:
Hazelnut Fondant Fancies have a sweet, nutty flavor with a hint of vanilla.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an after-dinner treat or as a snack with a cup of tea.
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