Aunt Helen'S Bow Ties

Prep: 20 min

Aunt Helen's Bow Ties are delicate, sweet pastry strips with a hint of whiskey and vanilla, perfect for festive gatherings or elegant tea-time treats.

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Ingredients

  • 8 egg yolks
  • 1/2 pint sweet cream
  • 1 shot rye whiskey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 1/2 cups flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Beat egg yolks and add sweet cream.
  2. Mix with whiskey and vanilla.
  3. Combine flour and salt, then mix into the egg yolk mixture.
  4. Add an additional 1/2 cup of flour if needed to make the dough manageable.
  5. Roll out the dough thinly and cut into 2-inch strips, about 4 inches long.
  6. Make a slit in the middle of each strip, loop one end through the slit, and pull to form a bow tie shape.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor, consider using homemade vanilla extract. For a twist, you can substitute half of the rye whiskey with bourbon, which adds a richer taste. If you're looking for a lighter dough, use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure to roll the dough evenly to ensure uniform cooking. If the dough is too sticky, dust with additional flour as needed.

Serving Suggestions

These bow ties are delightful served with a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzled with honey for added sweetness. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat. They can also be served alongside a fruit salad or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun dessert. For a unique twist, try serving them with a side of Cream Cheese And Pecan Spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover bow ties in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven (about 350°F) for 5-10 minutes until heated through, or enjoy them cold as a snack.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Aunt Helen'S Bow Ties contains roughly 1508 calories, with 57g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 89g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (113% of the Daily Value), iron (96% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (81% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.

1508 kcal 75% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 56.6g 100% DV
Total Fat 89.3g 100% DV
Carbs 59g 21% DV
Fiber 1.6g 6% DV
Sugar 13.2g 26% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 354.8mg 15% DV
Potassium 609mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 724.5mcg 81% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Vitamin D 15.6mcg 78% DV
Calcium 453.5mg 35% DV
Iron 17.2mg 96% DV
Diet fit High-protein
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Aunt Helen's bow ties?

Yes, you can freeze the bow ties! Once they are completely cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw and reheat as directed.

What is the best way to achieve the perfect bow tie shape?

To achieve the perfect bow tie shape, make sure to cut the dough into even strips and create a slit in the center that is just deep enough to allow one end to pass through without tearing. Practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first few attempts aren't perfect!

Can I make these bow ties without alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute the rye whiskey with an equal amount of apple cider or vanilla extract. This will keep the flavor profile similar while making it alcohol-free. The alcohol in the original recipe helps with the dough's texture, but the alternatives will still yield delicious results.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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