“Maids of Honor” – an intriguing name for a delightful pastry with a history as rich and layered as its flavors. These dainty treats, also known as “Maids of Honour” or “Queen Cakes,” have been enjoyed for centuries and even have a royal connection. In this exploration, we’ll uncover the fascinating history, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to recreate this regal pastry.
The origin of Maids of Honor can be traced back to the English Tudor period, specifically to the kitchens of Henry VIII’s Hampton Court Palace. These small, sweet pastries were a favorite of the King, and they were believed to have been named after Anne Boleyn’s maids of honor, the ladies-in-waiting to Queen Anne.
The recipe for Maids of Honor was said to have been kept a closely guarded secret within the palace. It is rumored that the King was so fond of these pastries that he wanted to ensure they were only made for him and his court. This royal connection has lent a sense of intrigue and allure to the pastries throughout history.
Over time, the recipe for Maids of Honor evolved and became more widely known. These delectable treats transitioned from being a royal indulgence to a popular pastry available to the masses. Today, they are enjoyed not only in England but also in various forms and variations around the world.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water
- 1/2 cup almond meal (ground almonds)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/4 cup currants or raisins (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Start by making the pastry. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cold, cubed butter. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Stir in the granulated sugar and lemon zest.
- Add the egg yolk and 2-3 tablespoons of ice water. Mix until the dough comes together into a ball. If needed, add a little more ice water, but be cautious not to overwork the dough.
- Flatten the pastry into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a separate bowl, prepare the filling. Combine the almond meal, granulated sugar, egg, softened butter, and almond extract (if using). Mix until the filling is smooth and well combined.
- Roll out the chilled pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the pastry.
- Gently press each pastry circle into the wells of a mini muffin tin or tartlet pan.
- Fill each pastry shell with a spoonful of the almond filling. If desired, top with a few currants or raisins.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and the filling is set.
- Allow the Maids of Honor to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
- Serve and enjoy these delightful pastries with a cup of tea, and savor the taste of history and tradition.
NOTES:
- Maids of Honor are not just a delightful treat; they are a taste of royal history and the evolution of culinary traditions. Whether enjoyed as a special treat or made to share with loved ones, these pastries carry with them the legacy of centuries of culinary delight.
