Hazelnut-Coffee Cremeschnitte Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 package puff pastry sheets (2 sheets)
- 1 cup hazelnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt

Special equipment needed:
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Electric mixer
- Pastry brush
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a 12x16 inch rectangle. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine hazelnuts, granulated sugar, and coffee. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Spread the hazelnut mixture over the puff pastry sheet, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a 12x16 inch rectangle. Place it on top of the hazelnut mixture and press the edges to seal.
6. Brush the top of the pastry with water and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

For the filling:

1. In a large bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
2. Cut the cooled pastry into 8 equal rectangles.
3. Spread a generous amount of whipped cream on top of 4 of the pastry rectangles.
4. Place the remaining 4 pastry rectangles on top of the whipped cream, pressing gently to sandwich them together.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.


Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 400°F (200°C)
Serving size:
8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 580
Fat: 43g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 170mg
Sugar: 22g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almonds or walnuts can be used instead of hazelnuts.
- Instant coffee can be used instead of brewed coffee.

Variations:
- Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the pastry and the whipped cream.
- Use different flavored extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, instead of vanilla extract.
- Top with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to leave a 1-inch border around the edges of the pastry when spreading the hazelnut mixture to prevent it from leaking out.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the pastry into equal rectangles.
- Chill the whipped cream and beaters in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before whipping for best results.

Storage instructions:
Store the Hazelnut-Coffee Cremeschnitte in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the Hazelnut-Coffee Cremeschnitte in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the Hazelnut-Coffee Cremeschnitte on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint.

Garnishes:
Fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or chopped hazelnuts can be used as garnishes.

Pairings:
Serve the Hazelnut-Coffee Cremeschnitte with a cup of strong coffee or espresso.

Suggested side dishes:
Fresh fruit salad or a mixed green salad would pair well with the Hazelnut-Coffee Cremeschnitte.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pastry is not puffing up, make sure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature and the pastry is not too thick.
- If the whipped cream is not stiff enough, make sure the cream and beaters are chilled and beat until stiff peaks form.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to store the Hazelnut-Coffee Cremeschnitte in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers after 2 days.

Food history:
Cremeschnitte, also known as krempita, is a popular pastry in Central and Eastern Europe. It typically consists of layers of puff pastry filled with whipped cream or custard.

Flavor profiles:
The Hazelnut-Coffee Cremeschnitte is a rich and decadent pastry with a nutty and slightly bitter flavor from the hazelnuts and coffee.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the Hazelnut-Coffee Cremeschnitte as a dessert or a special treat for brunch or afternoon tea.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Austrian

Taste: Rich, Creamy, Nutty, Sweet, Coffee, Coffee-Flavored