Sweet Tarte Soleil
A Summer Solstice Sweet Treat
During the Summer Solstice, with its long days, vibrant blooms, and a sun reaching its peak, I feel a deep connection to the energy of the Crone. She is the Wise Woman, the keeper of stories, the embodiment of potent magic. I like to celebrate her wisdom with a sweet twist on a classic tradition – a Nutella Tarte Soleil, the perfect treat for this joyous occasion.
This Tarte Soleil, like the Crone herself, is both familiar and unexpected. I swap the traditional pesto filling for the decadent embrace of Nutella, a nod to the Crone's fondness for life's sweeter moments. It's a dessert that radiates warmth, abundance, and a touch of magic.
Ingredients:
Two sheets of puff pastry, thawed (Pillsbury is a great option!)
A generous dollop of Nutella (or your favorite chocolate hazelnut spread), slightly warmed to be spreadable
1 egg, beaten
Optional: sesame seeds or candy sprinkles
Instructions:
Roll and Cut: On parchment baking sheets, roll out each sheet of puff pastry separately. Use a large plate (about 10-12 inches) to cut a large circle from each.
Spread the Magic: Gently spread a thick layer of Nutella onto one of the pastry circles, leaving a 1-inch border.
Double the Delight: Place the second puff pastry circle on top, pressing the edges gently to seal.
The Sacred Center: Place a small glass in the center of your pastry circle. This will be your guiding point for creating the "sun's rays."
Creating the Rays: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the pastry into quarters, then eighths, then sixteenths, and finally thirty-seconds. You should have 16 rays radiating from the central glass.
Twist and Shine: Remove the glass. Now, gently twist each ray twice, keeping them connected to the center. Press the ends down onto the baking sheet. Brush the entire tarte with the beaten egg.
Crone's Blessing: Sprinkle sesame seeds or sprinkles in the center for an extra touch of sun-like magic.
Bake and Bask: Place the parchment sheet with the completed tarte on a metal sheet pan. Bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
A Crone's Wisdom
As we bake this Tarte Soleil, let's reflect on the wisdom the Crone embodies:
Embrace the Sweetness: Just like the Nutella in our dessert, the Crone reminds us to savor life's simple joys.
Radiate Warmth: Let your inner light shine like the golden rays of our pastry sun.
Share Abundance: This Tarte Soleil is best shared, a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things.
Honor Your Journey: Each twist of the pastry is like a turn in life's path, leading us to new discoveries.
As you enjoy this treat under the Solstice sun, I encourage you to embrace your own inner Crone – your wisdom, your strength, your sweetness. Let her magic guide you through the seasons of your life.