Shekarbura - Azerbaijani Sweet Pastry

Ingredients

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 cup (120g) ground walnuts or almonds 1 cup (120g) ground walnuts or almonds
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• For assembly: For assembly:
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional) Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 16g (Sugar: 6g)
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the ground walnuts or almonds, granulated sugar, honey, cinnamon, and cardamom. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the nut filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly to seal.
7. 7.
   Place the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg wash.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Walnuts or Almonds — Make sure to use finely ground nuts for a smooth filling. You can grind them in a food processor or use pre-ground nuts. Avoid over-processing, as it may release too much oil.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, toast the nuts before grinding them.
• Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cloves to add a unique twist to the filling.
• If the dough becomes too soft while rolling, refrigerate it for a few minutes to firm up.
• Dust the work surface and rolling pin with flour to prevent sticking.
• Serve Shekarbura warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

Serving advice

Serve Shekarbura as a delightful dessert alongside a cup of Azerbaijani tea or coffee. These pastries are perfect for sharing with friends and family during festive gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden Shekarbura pastries on a platter, dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a drizzle of honey for added visual appeal.