Delightful Old-Fashioned Lady Lock Recipe to Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings

Introduction

If you’re a fan of nostalgic sweet treats, the old-fashioned lady lock, also known as clothespin cookies, is sure to bring back fond memories. These delicate, flaky pastries are a delightful addition to any gathering, and their sweet, creamy filling is bound to satisfy your sweet cravings. With this simple recipe, you can easily recreate this classic confection in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To create these delightful old-fashioned lady locks, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pastry:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sour cream until well combined.
2. Gradually add the flour and salt to the creamed mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into four equal portions, shape each into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Roll and Shape the Pastry

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll one portion of the dough into a 12×4 inch rectangle. Cut into 1×4 inch strips.
3. Wrap each strip around a metal or wooden clothespin, slightly overlapping the edges, and place on the prepared baking sheets.
4. Bake in preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the pastry shells to cool before removing from the clothespins.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the confectioners’ sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, beating until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Lady Locks

1. Carefully remove the pastry shells from the clothespins.
2. Using a piping bag or a small spoon, fill each pastry shell with the prepared filling, ensuring to fill from each end to meet in the middle.

FAQ

Q: Can I make lady locks ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the pastry shells and filling in advance. Store the cooled pastry shells in an airtight container at room temperature, and keep the filling refrigerated. Fill the pastry shells with the filling just before serving to maintain their delightful texture.

Q: Can I use a different filling for the lady locks?

A: While the classic vanilla cream filling is traditional, you can certainly experiment with different fillings. Consider using flavored creams, fruit fillings, or even chocolate ganache to create unique variations of this old-fashioned treat.

Q: How should I store leftover lady locks?

A: If you happen to have any lady locks left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, these delicious treats are best enjoyed fresh to savor their delicate pastry texture.

Q: Can I freeze lady locks?

A: Yes, you can freeze lady locks. Once assembled, place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to one month. Allow the lady locks to thaw at room temperature before serving.

Q: Can I use salted butter for the pastry?

A: It’s best to use unsalted butter for the pastry to have better control over the salt content, especially since the filling also includes butter. This ensures a balanced and delightful flavor in each lady lock.

With this delightful old-fashioned lady lock recipe, you can easily indulge in the charm of these classic treats. Whether for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these flaky pastries filled with creamy goodness are sure to delight your taste buds.