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South African Hertzoggies

Irresistible South African Hertzoggies: A Cozy Sweet Treat

Delight in these South African Hertzoggies, a combination of light pastry, apricot jam, and chewy coconut meringue that brings a taste of nostalgia.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 12 tartlets
Course: DESSERTS
Cuisine: South African
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Pastry Base
  • 2 cups self-raising flour Substitute with plain flour plus baking powder if needed.
  • 1 cup butter Softened for easy mixing.
  • 1/2 cup sugar Can reduce if less sweetness is preferred.
  • 1 large egg Use room temperature for better incorporation.
Filling
  • 1 cup apricot jam Can substitute with other jams like raspberry.
Meringue Topping
  • 1 cup desiccated coconut Opt for unsweetened for a balanced taste.
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg Optional but recommended for warmth.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • tartlet pans
  • whisk
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine self-raising flour, sugar, and softened butter. Mix until the texture is crumbly, then add the egg and stir until a smooth dough forms.
  2. For better texture, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes.
  3. Grease tartlet pans, then press the chilled dough evenly into the bottoms and sides of each pan.
  4. Spoon a generous layer of apricot jam into the center of each dough base.
  5. In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually incorporate sugar to achieve a glossy, stiff meringue, then gently fold in the desiccated coconut.
  6. Spoon the meringue mixture over the apricot jam, smoothing it out gently.
  7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the tartlets for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool in the pans before transferring to a wire rack.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tartletCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish before serving. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

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