Tulumbe

Tulumbe is a beloved dessert that's popular in many Balkan countries. These sweet, syrup-soaked pastries have a delightful crunch on the outside and a soft, airy texture on the inside. Traditionally served cold, Tulumbe are perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat to share with loved ones. Follow this recipe to create these delectable treats that will add a touch of elegance to your dessert table.

Ingredients:

For the Syrup:

- 6 1/4 cups granulated sugar

- 4 cups water

- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

- 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Dough:

- 6 ounces unsalted butter

- 1 1/2 cups water

- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 6 large eggs

Instructions:

1. Make the Syrup:

- In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, 4 cups water, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.

- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.

- Allow the syrup to cool completely, then divide it into two large bowls.

2. Make the Dough:

- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter in 1 1/2 cups water.

- Add the flour and salt, stirring until the dough forms a mass that pulls away from the sides of the pan.

- Beat in the eggs one at a time until the batter is smooth.

3. Bake the Pastries:

- Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.

- Fill a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip with the dough.

- Pipe 12 (5-inch) lengths of dough onto the prepared pan.

- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the tulumbe puff up and turn golden brown.

4. Soak the Tulumbe:

- Immediately place the hot tulumbe into the bowls of syrup.

- Push down lightly to ensure they are completely coated.

- Let them soak overnight to absorb the syrup.

5. Serve:

- Serve the tulumbe cold the next day.

Indulge in the rich, syrupy sweetness of Tulumbe and enjoy a dessert that’s both simple to make and delightful to eat. Perfect for any occasion, these pastries bring a touch of tradition and a lot of flavor to your table. Happy baking!