Brandy snaps

Brandy snaps are a popular British dessert item, often served with cream. They are made from a dough of flour, sugar, butter, and golden syrup, which is then baked until it forms a thin, crispy shell. The shell is often rolled into a tube shape while still warm and flexible, and then allowed to cool and harden. The name "brandy snaps" is somewhat misleading, as the traditional recipe does not actually contain any brandy.

History

The exact origins of brandy snaps are unclear, but they are believed to have been first made in the United Kingdom during the 19th century. They have since become a staple of British baking and are often served at afternoon tea or as a dessert.

Preparation

The dough for brandy snaps is made by combining flour, sugar, butter, and golden syrup in a saucepan and heating until the butter is melted and the ingredients are well combined. The mixture is then dropped in small amounts onto a baking sheet and baked until golden brown. While still warm, the baked dough is quickly rolled around a wooden spoon handle or similar object to form a tube shape. Once cooled, the brandy snaps become crisp and can be filled with whipped cream or other fillings.

Variations

While the traditional brandy snap recipe does not contain brandy, some variations do include a splash of the spirit for added flavor. Other variations may include different types of flour, such as gluten-free flour, or different fillings, such as chocolate ganache or fruit compote.

Serving

Brandy snaps are typically served as a dessert, often with a cup of tea or coffee. They can be served plain, or filled with whipped cream or other fillings. They are also often used as a garnish for other desserts, such as ice cream or custard.

See also

• List of British desserts
• List of pastries