I am in love. The objects of my affections are mini jam doughnut muffins. These sweet treats have captured my heart and occupy every waking moment of the day. Continue reading
Mini berry pies on a stick, or heart pastry pops.
3 JunHow 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.
Victoria sandwich sponge cake
21 JunQueen Victoria’s memory lives on in this light-as-air concoction which is dressed with a simple dusting of icing sugar. It may not be trendy but it is divine: not overly sweet but just sweet enough. Like biting into a cloud… Continue reading