Diamond Glimmers Recipe

Introduction

Diamond Glimmers are a delightful pastry treat that has a history rich with tradition and familial love. Originating from the quaint bakeries of Eastern Europe, these sparkling pastries are a testament to the culinary artistry of regional chefs who could turn simple ingredients into exquisite treats. Over time, these pastries became synonymous with festive days and joyful celebrations. Their golden, flaky crust, topped with a shimmering sugar coat, makes them a visually stunning addition to any dessert table. Let's delve into the recipe for these enchanting treats, ensuring you make the perfect Diamond Glimmers.

Ingredients

• Flour - 2 cups
• Unsalted Butter - 1 cup, chilled and cubed
• Sugar - 1/2 cup, plus extra for sprinkling
• Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
• Cold Water - 1/4 cup
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
• Egg - 1 for egg wash

Preparation

1. Start by preparing the pastry dough. Place the flour, unsalted butter, sugar, and salt in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the cold water and vanilla extract. Continue to pulse until the dough just comes together.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Gently knead to form a cohesive ball, then wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
2. Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a cookie cutter, cut out diamond shapes from the dough.
3. Transfer the diamond-shaped pieces onto the prepared baking sheet. Beat the egg to create an egg wash and gently brush each diamond with it.
4. Sprinkle the tops generously with extra sugar to form the "glimmering" effect.
5. Bake the pastries in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
6. Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

Enjoying Diamond Glimmers

Diamond Glimmers can be enjoyed in multiple ways. They are perfect as a standalone snack, enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. Their light and crispy texture make them an ideal accompaniment to creamy desserts, such as custards or panna cotta. You can also package them in decorative boxes to share as homemade gifts during the holidays. Their beautiful diamond shape and sparkling exterior make them a perfect treat to enjoy at parties and celebrations.

These pastries store well in an airtight container, retaining their crispness for up to a week, though they are often too delicious to last that long!