In the realm of delicate pastries and the art of baking, there exists a confection as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate: the Chinese Peach Blossom Pastry. This romantic, flower-shaped treat is a testament to the artistry that can be achieved with simple ingredients and a touch of creativity.
Crafted with a tender crust made from a blend of all-purpose flour and lard, and a filling of smooth red bean paste, each pastry is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The pastries are adorned with a golden egg wash and a sprinkling of white sesame seeds, adding a subtle crunch and a hint of richness.
Ingredients:
Dough:
- All-purpose flour: 90g
- Lard: 30g
- Water: 45g
- Granulated sugar: 15g
Pastry Crust:
- Cake flour: 70g
- Lard: 35g
- Purple sweet potato powder: 6g
Filling:
- Red bean paste: 225g
Garnish:
- Egg yolk wash: As needed
- White sesame seeds: As needed
The creation of these pastries is a labor of love. Begin by combining the dough ingredients in a mixer until it reaches an extensible state. Mix the pastry crust ingredients separately and let both dough and crust rest for 15 minutes. The red bean paste is then shaped into 25g balls.
Divide the dough and crust into nine portions each. Wrap the crust around the dough, seal, and roll out into an oval shape. Roll up, rest, and repeat the process to create layers. After another rest, press down the center with a thumb, fold the ends up, flatten, and roll into a circle. Encase the red bean paste within, pinch to seal, and shape into a ball. Flatten the ball and use a round piping tip to press a circular indentation in the center.
Carefully cut five petals around the indentation, pinch the tips to shape the petals, and use a knife to etch petal details. The final touch before baking is brushing the center with egg yolk and sprinkling sesame seeds to mimic the stamen of a flower.
Bake at 160 degrees Celsius for 35-40 minutes, until the pastries are golden brown and the kitchen is filled with the sweet aroma of baked goods. The result is a batch of pastries that are not only a joy to create but also a perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea.