Treacle Langues de Chat

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add the cold butter and mix until the dough comes together.

   Tip: Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour.

3. 3

   Gradually add the ice-cold water, mixing until the dough forms a ball.

4. 4

   Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

5. 5

   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 3mm.

   Tip: Use a rolling pin to achieve an even thickness.

6. 6

   Cut the dough into cat-shaped strips, about 10cm long and 1.5cm wide.

   Tip: Use a cookie cutter or a knife to achieve the desired shape.

7. 7

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the treacle, sugar, golden syrup, and vanilla extract.

   Tip: Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.

8. 8

   Fill a piping bag with the treacle mixture and pipe into the cat-shaped pastry pockets.

   Tip: Use a piping bag with a large round tip for best results.

9. 9

   Brush the tops of the pastry with melted butter and sprinkle with confectioners' sugar.

   Tip: This will give the pastry a golden glaze and a sweet, sugary flavor.

10. 10

    Bake the cat-shaped pastry pockets for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

11. 11

    While the pastry is baking, heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat.

    Tip: Use a thermometer to heat the milk to a gentle simmer.

12. 12

    Remove the pastry from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.

    Tip: Use a spatula to carefully lift the pastry off the baking tray.

13. 13

    Dip each pastry pocket into the warm milk, coating both sides evenly.

    Tip: This will give the pastry a creamy, milky flavor.

14. 14

    Serve the Treacle Langues de Chat warm, dust with confectioners' sugar if desired.

    Tip: Enjoy as a sweet treat or dessert.