Shnik, a flaky and tender pastry

Shnik, a flaky and tender pastry

To prepare Shnik, a flaky and tender pastry reminiscent of those from major bakeries, follow the steps below:

Dough Ingredients:

• 600 grams all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 packet vanilla sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 1 packet baking powder
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg white
• Milk, as needed to form the dough

Pastry Cream Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons pastry cream powder
• A dash of vanilla
• 500 ml (½ liter) milk

Butter Layering (Tourage):

• 250 grams butter

Filling Options:

• Raisins
• Chocolate chips
• Glaze:
• 2 egg yolks
• A splash of vinegar
• A splash of milk
• Pinch of salt

Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, vanilla sugar, salt, and baking powder.

Add the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and egg white.

Gradually incorporate milk, a little at a time, until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.

Cover the bowl and let the dough rise until it doubles in size.

2. Prepare the Pastry Cream:

In a saucepan, mix the sugar and pastry cream powder.

Slowly add the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.

Remove from heat, add a dash of vanilla, and let it cool to room temperature.

3. Butter Layering (Tourage):

Once the dough has risen, divide it into small balls.

On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a rectangle.

Soften the butter and spread a thin layer over the dough rectangle.

Roll the dough tightly, then coil it into a spiral.

Place the spirals on a tray, cover, and refrigerate for about 5 minutes to firm up the butter.

4. Shaping and Filling:

After chilling, roll out each spiral into a rectangle.

Spread a layer of pastry cream over the surface.

Sprinkle raisins and chocolate chips evenly.

Roll the dough back into a log and cut into desired lengths.

Place the pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Glazing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, vinegar, milk, and a pinch of salt.

Brush the tops of the pastries with this glaze.

6. Baking:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Bake the pastries for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.