Maple Glaze Zellers
About Maple Glaze Zellers
The Maple Glaze Zellers recipe is a modern twist inspired by classic Canadian baking traditions. Rich in history, Canada's love affair with maple syrup dates back centuries, originating from indigenous communities who were the first to tap the maple trees. Over time, maple syrup has become a quintessential Canadian staple, adding a distinct sweetness and depth to a variety of dishes. Zellers, traditionally a home-baked pastry, has been adapted in this recipe to incorporate the rich, earthy flavors of maple syrup. These delightful pastries serve as a homage to Canada's culinary heritage, merging old-world techniques with contemporary flavor profiles.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour - 2 cups
- Baking powder - 1 tablespoon
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
- Unsalted butter, chilled and cubed - 1/2 cup
- Pure maple syrup - 1 cup
- Milk - 1/2 cup
- Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
- Granulated sugar - 1/4 cup
- Large eggs - 2
- Chopped pecans (optional) - 1/2 cup
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the butter cubes and integrate them using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This process is essential for achieving a flaky texture in your Zellers.
In a separate bowl, blend the milk and vanilla extract. Slowly drizzle this mixture into the flour-butter mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Step 2: Rolling and Shaping
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about a quarter inch. Using a circular cutter, cut out small circles of dough. Arrange them onto a lined baking sheet, keeping some space between each piece as they'll expand upon baking.
Step 3: Preparing the Maple Glaze
To make the maple glaze, whisk together the maple syrup, remaining butter melted, cinnamon, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Cooking Process
Step 4: Baking the Zellers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and brush them over the top of each pastry piece for a golden finish. Bake the Zellers in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Ensure you use a cooking timer to track the baking duration closely.
Step 5: Applying the Maple Glaze
Once baked, remove the Zellers from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. While still warm, generously brush the prepared maple glaze over each piece, sprinkling pecans if desired. The glaze will soak into the pastries, imbuing them with a sweet, maple-rich flavor profile.
Enjoying Your Maple Glaze Zellers
These delightful pastries are best enjoyed warm. Serve them with a side of freshly brewed coffee or your choice of tea. They make for an excellent breakfast treat or a sweet dessert. If stored in an airtight container, they can be kept for up to three days. For an extra indulgent experience, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.