Sand Valentines with Cherry
12 servings
30 minutes
Sandwich valentine cookies with cherry are delicate and crumbly pastries inspired by Russian baking traditions. The secret of their flavor lies in the combination of buttery dough with an almond hint and sweet cherry filling, creating a harmony of textures and aromas. Valentines symbolize romance, and their heart shape makes them a perfect gift for loved ones. Historically, almonds and cherries were often used in Russian cuisine, adding a refined taste and festive atmosphere to baked goods. Golden-brown, slightly crunchy yet soft inside, these cookies pair perfectly with tea or coffee, enhancing cozy evenings with the warmth of homemade treats. Their preparation requires care and patience, but the result delights the eye and brings joy to everyone who tries this sweet masterpiece.
1
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees.
2
Sift powdered sugar, flour, and corn flour into a bowl. Add crushed almonds and butter. Rub until smooth.
- Powdered sugar: 100 g
- Wheat flour: 200 g
- Corn flour: 50 g
- Ground almonds: 50 g
- Butter: 250 g
3
Chop the dried cherries finely and add to the dough, pour in the almond extract, and knead the dough.
- Dried cherries: 50 g
- Almond extract: 0.5 teaspoon
4
Wrap in plastic wrap and leave in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
5
Take out of the fridge and roll out on a lightly floured surface. Cut heart shapes from the dough.
6
Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put in the oven for 8-10 minutes until the dough just starts to turn slightly golden.
7
Using the neck of a bottle or any similar press, create a circle in the center of each cookie and fill it with cherry jam.
- Cherry jam: 8 tablespoons
8
Return to the oven and bake until cooked or golden brown.
9
Place on a rack, let cool, and dust with powdered sugar.
- Powdered sugar: 100 g