Nazook: Sweet Persian Pastry Delight

Name: Nazook: Sweet Persian Pastry Delight
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 135 min
Yield: 16 slices
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and diced); 1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat); 1 unit egg yolk; 1 cup walnuts (finely chopped); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; 1 unit egg (beaten); 1 tablespoon water

135 min 16 slices Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in the flaky and buttery goodness of Nazook, a traditional sweet Persian pastry filled with a fragrant walnut and sugar mixture.

Prep

45 min

Cook

30 min

Total

135 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Nazook is a delightful Persian pastry that combines a buttery, flaky exterior with a sweet and nutty filling. This traditional treat is perfect for those who love a balance of textures and flavours in their desserts. The rich walnut filling, sweetened with sugar and lightly spiced with cardamom, provides a perfect contrast to the crisp pastry shell. This recipe captures the essence of Persian baking, where each bite is a harmonious blend of taste and texture. Whether you're familiar with Persian cuisine or looking to explore new culinary horizons, this Nazook recipe is sure to impress. It's an ideal choice for festive occasions or as a special treat for tea time.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and diced butter. Using a pastry cutter, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the sour cream and egg yolk, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Pro tip: Chilling the dough makes it easier to roll out without sticking.

Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped walnuts, sugar, and cardamom until well combined.

Pro tip: Ensure the walnuts are finely chopped for an even texture.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Pro tip: Use parchment paper to prevent the pastries from sticking.

Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 30x40 cm (12x16 inches).

Pro tip: Roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent baking.

Add the Filling

Spread the walnut mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a 2 cm (1 inch) border.

Pro tip: Press the filling gently into the dough to help it adhere.

Shape the Pastries

Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 2 cm (1 inch) thick pieces and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Pro tip: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.

Apply the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, mix the beaten egg with water. Brush the tops of the pastries with the egg wash.

Pro tip: The egg wash gives a shiny, golden finish to the pastries.

Bake the Pastries

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Pro tip: Pastries should be firm to the touch when done.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Ensure your butter is cold for a flakier dough.
Chill the dough for easier rolling and shaping.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Allow pastries to cool before serving for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nazook?

Nazook is a sweet Persian pastry with a flaky crust and a filling of walnuts, sugar, and cardamom.

How many calories are in a serving of Nazook?

A single serving of Nazook contains approximately 210 calories.

How long does Nazook last?

Nazook can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Can I freeze Nazook?

Yes, you can freeze Nazook for up to a month. Defrost at room temperature before serving.

What can I serve with Nazook?

Serve Nazook with tea or coffee, or pair with vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert.

Is Nazook difficult to make?

Nazook is of medium difficulty, requiring some time to prepare the dough and filling.

What is the filling made of in Nazook?

The filling for Nazook is made of chopped walnuts, sugar, and ground cardamom.

Serving Suggestions

Nazook is best enjoyed fresh, with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Pair it with a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience. You can make Nazook ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the pastries for up to a month, and defrost them at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition per serving

210

Calories

Protein

11g

Fat

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