Malva Tart Puffs

Introduction to Malva Tart Puffs

Malva Tart, a classic South African dessert, is a delectable and rich pudding comprised of a spongy cake-like consistency. Its origins trace back to the traditional Cape Dutch cuisine, often served with warm sauce or custard. Drawing inspiration from the traditional Malva Tart, these delightful Malva Tart Puffs offer a modern twist, making them a perfect bite-sized treat.

This version of Malva Tart comes as a puff, incorporating the same delightful flavors into a convenient puff pastry form, ideal for parties or an intriguing addition to a high tea menu.

Ingredients

• Puff Pastry - 1 package, thawed
• Apricot Jam - 1/2 cup
• Vinegar - 1 tablespoon
• Baking Soda - 1 teaspoon
• All-purpose Flour - 1 cup
• Sugar - 1 cup
• Milk - 1 cup
• Egg - 1, large
• Butter - 2 tablespoons, melted
• Heavy Cream - 1/2 cup
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Filling

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large bowl, whisk together the apricot jam and vinegar. Add the baking soda and mix until smooth. Following this, pour in the milk gradually, while continuously stirring to ensure a smooth consistency. Crack the egg into the mixture and beat well to incorporate.

Next, sift the flour into the bowl and add the sugar. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth. Lastly, drizzle in the melted butter and vanilla extract, folding them gently into the batter.

Step 2: Shaping the Puffs

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of approximately 3mm. Cut the pastry into squares, approximately 2 inches by 2 inches in size. Spoon a small amount of filling into the center of each puff pastry square.

Carefully fold the corners of each square towards the center, pinching them together to seal the pouch. Place each pouch onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them sufficiently apart to allow for expansion during baking.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Baking the Puffs

Once all puffs are shaped, place the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy. Use a cooking timer to track the baking duration for optimal results.

While the puffs are baking, prepare the glaze by heating heavy cream and an extra tablespoon of butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once combined and warmed through, carefully remove from heat.

Step 4: Glazing the Puffs

On removal from the oven, promptly brush each puff with the prepared glaze, ensuring an even coating. Allow the puffs to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoying Malva Tart Puffs

The Malva Tart Puffs are best enjoyed warm. They make a perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee, and can be served as a dessert or a sweet snack during gatherings. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.