Imagine indulging in a delightful treat that not only pleases your taste buds but also dazzles your guests with its charming presentation! These Edible Dessert Baskets (Корзинки) are the perfect fusion of flaky pastry and luscious cream, filled with vibrant, fresh fruits that scream “celebration.” Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this Russian-inspired dessert is sure to impress. With a little preparation and creativity, you can create these stunning baskets in just 40 minutes. Ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Russian
Serves: 6 baskets
Ingredients
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup pastry cream (or whipped cream)
- Fruits for filling (e.g., berries, kiwi)
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by bringing butter and egg to room temperature. Sift flour to remove any lumps and ensure smooth dough texture.
- In a mixing bowl, cream softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer or whisk. Mix for approximately 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes pale and smooth.
- Add the egg to the butter-sugar mixture and blend thoroughly until fully incorporated, ensuring no streaks remain.
- Gradually add sifted flour to the wet ingredients, mixing gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until a soft, pliable dough forms. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough pastry.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax and make the dough easier to work with.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 6-cup muffin tin or use silicone molds for easy removal.
- Remove dough from refrigerator and roll out on a lightly floured surface to approximately 1/8 inch thickness. Cut circles slightly larger than the muffin cups.
- Carefully press dough circles into muffin cups, creating basket-like shapes with slightly raised edges. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent air bubbles.
- Bake the pastry shells for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Allow to cool completely in the tin before removing.
- Prepare pastry cream by whisking together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch, then slowly adding hot milk and cooking until thickened. Alternatively, use whipped cream.
- Once pastry baskets are cooled, fill with prepared pastry cream or whipped cream using a piping bag for neat presentation.
- Decorate the filled baskets with fresh fruits like strawberries, raspberries, kiwi slices, or a mix of seasonal berries.
- Optionally, dust with powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant finishing touch.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crisp texture of the pastry and freshness of the fruits.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature before starting. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy mixture that incorporates air for a lighter pastry.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: When adding flour, mix gently to avoid developing gluten, which can lead to tough baskets. Stop mixing as soon as the dough comes together.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes is crucial. It relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out and shape without shrinking during baking.
- Use Silicone Molds: If you have silicone muffin molds, use them! They allow for easy removal of the baked pastry and help maintain the basket shape.
- Prick the Bottom: Don’t forget to prick the bottom of the pastry shells with a fork before baking. This prevents air bubbles from forming and ensures an even bake.
- Fill Just Before Serving: To keep the pastry crisp, fill the baskets with cream and fruits just before serving. This ensures they maintain their delightful texture.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to mix and match your favorite fruits for filling. Seasonal berries, kiwi, and even a sprinkle of edible flowers can add a beautiful touch.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: For an elegant finish, dust the filled baskets with powdered sugar right before serving. It adds a touch of sweetness and a lovely presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
