A Sweet Dive into New French Cuisine
French cuisine is celebrated for its sophistication and elegance, and the art of dessertmaking is no exception. One delightful creation that embodies these qualities is the Caramel Walnut Slice. This delectable treat combines the rich flavors of caramel with the crunch of walnuts, all encased in a buttery, flaky base. Perfect for any occasion, these slices can be made effortlessly at home with just a few steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Base:
200g allpurpose flour
100g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
50g powdered sugar
1 large egg yolk
A pinch of salt
For the Caramel Topping:
150g granulated sugar
60ml water
150ml double cream
100g walnuts, roughly chopped
A pinch of sea salt
StepbyStep Cooking Methods
1. Prepare the Base:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a square cake tin with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cubed butter, powdered sugar, egg yolk, and salt. Using your fingers, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
Press the mixture firmly into the base of the prepared tin to form an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1520 minutes or until lightly golden.
2. Make the Caramel:
While the base is cooling, prepare the caramel. In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Allow the sugar to dissolve, then increase the heat and boil without stirring until the mixture turns a light amber color.
Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the double cream (it will bubble vigorously). Mix until smooth, then stir in the chopped walnuts and a pinch of sea salt.
3. Assemble the Slices:
Pour the caramel walnut mixture over the baked base, spreading it evenly. Return to the oven for an additional 1015 minutes until the caramel is bubbling.
4. Cool and Slice:
Allow the caramel walnut slices to cool completely in the tin before removing and cutting into squares. The longer you let them sit, the better the texture will be!
Serving Suggestions
These Caramel Walnut Slices are best served at room temperature with a dusting of powdered sugar or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. They make a perfect end to a dinner party or a delightful snack with coffee.
Conclusion
Embracing new French cuisine at home doesn’t require fancy techniques or ingredients. With these simple steps, you can create an indulgent dessert that showcases the elegance and flavor traditions of France. Enjoy your homemade Caramel Walnut Slices, and share them with friends and family for a truly sweet experience!