Introduction
Imagine a delightful pastry that not only warms your heart but also beautifully embodies the spirit of love. These Vegan Love Letter Pastries are a sweet treat perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply indulging in a cozy afternoon snack. With a delicate, flaky crust and a rich, chocolatey filling, each bite offers a burst of flavor that will leave you and your loved ones craving more.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegan butter, chilled and diced
- 2-4 tablespoons cold water
- 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup almond or hazelnut cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Dairy-free milk, for brushing
- Extra powdered sugar, for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 pastries
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Add the chilled, diced vegan butter to the dry mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the ingredients until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to form. You want to achieve a nice, workable dough.
- Once your dough is combined, shape it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick — be gentle to keep it flaky!
- Cut the rolled-out dough into squares or rectangles, approximately 3 inches in size.
- In a small bowl, mix the vegan chocolate chips, almond or hazelnut cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Place a small spoonful of the chocolate mixture onto the center of each dough square.
- If you like, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of the chocolate mixture for an extra crunch!
- Carefully fold the corners of the dough over the filling, pinching to seal each pastry tightly — it’s like wrapping a letter of love!
- Arrange the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops generously with dairy-free milk for a beautiful golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
- Once baked, allow the pastries to cool slightly before dusting with an extra sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Notes or Tips
For a touch of flair, consider experimenting with different nut butters or flavored extracts in your filling. These pastries can easily be customized to suit your taste, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
Cooking Techniques
The key to achieving a flaky pastry lies in the cold butter and the gentle handling of the dough. Make sure to keep everything chilled throughout the process. This will ensure that your Vegan Love Letter Pastries are tender and light, with that irresistible flakiness we all adore.
FAQ
Can I make these pastries gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.
How should I store the leftover pastries? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage!
Conclusion
There you have it! These Vegan Love Letter Pastries are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a sweet gesture that conveys love and care. Whether you share them with friends, family, or keep them all to yourself, each bite is sure to bring a smile. Enjoy this delightful recipe and the love it inspires!