Desserts > Cookies > Croatian

Orange-Almond Kroštule Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tablespoons brandy
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar

Special Equipment Needed:
- Electric mixer
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry bag
- Large bowl

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, orange zest, orange juice, brandy, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
3. In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in the slivered almonds.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Place the dough in a pastry bag and pipe out small circles onto the parchment paper.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool.
10. In a small bowl, mix together the vegetable oil and confectioners' sugar.
11. Dip the cooled kroštule into the sugar mixture and let cool completely.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes about 30 kroštule

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 140 kcal
Fat: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 16 g
Protein: 2 g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Eggs: 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed + 6 tablespoons water
- Orange juice: pineapple juice
- Brandy: rum
- Vegetable oil: melted butter

Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots for a fruity twist.
- Add 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts for a nutty flavor.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to pipe the dough onto the parchment paper in small circles, as they will expand while baking.
- For a crunchier texture, bake the kroštule for an extra 2-3 minutes.

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

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

Presentation Ideas:
Serve on a platter with a dusting of confectioners' sugar.

Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of slivered almonds.

Pairings:
Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.

Troubleshooting Advice:
If the kroštule are not crunchy enough, bake them for an extra 2-3 minutes.

Food Safety Advice:
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Food History:
Kroštule is a traditional Croatian pastry that is typically served during the holidays. It is made with a dough that is piped into small circles and then fried in oil.

Flavor Profiles:
This recipe has a sweet and nutty flavor, with hints of orange and almond.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or snack.

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Region: Croatian

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Citrusy, Crunchy