the hungry mum

How much squee can one dessert hold? While scientists furiously debate the matter I’ll make a punt on saying – lots. I made these oh-so-adorable desserts at a recent family gathering, where I did my usual over-the-top baking trick.

I just couldn’t resist this treat – it was so fun and as it was quick to make [using my pastry cheat] I could dedicate my time to the [many] other bakes I was presenting.

Anything on sticks has instant appeal but these little pies would be perfect presented sans stick. They are the perfect little size for a high tea or even a lunch box treat.

I bought mini paddle pop sticks for this as I had my doubts about putting plastic lollypop sticks in the oven.

I was inspired by this recipe from http://www.cookingchanneltv.com but I cheated all the way. I used frozen shortcrust pastry (home-made pastry would inevitably taste better but to quote that hilarious meme, ain’t nobody got time for that) and shop-bought jam instead of all the from scratch options.

Gather:

2 sheets thawed sweet-crust pastry sheets

Favourite jam / preserves [I used berry]

Caster sugar

Let’s get to it:

Preheat oven to 180C and line two baking sheets with non-stick baking paper.

Use a hear-shaped biscuit / cookie cutter to cut out small hearts. Place half on the baking tray.

Place a small dollop of jam into the centre of each half – do not overfill if they will explode during baking.

Place a stick into each pop then place another heart on top. Use fork to firmly press done edges, then sprinkle with caster sugar.

Bake for 11-18 minutes, depending on the size of your hearts. Allow cooling before serving.

PS – these kept for quite a few days in a sealed contained in a dark, cool place.

Tags: berry, dessert, dessert on sticks, easy, jam, party food, pastry, sugar, sweet