“Rose Leaves” is a delightful and unique dessert that combines the delicate flavors of roses with a buttery, thin, and crispy pastry. This treat has its roots in traditional baking, where floral essences were often used to infuse a subtle fragrance and taste into pastries. The history of Rose Leaves dates back to a time when culinary enthusiasts began experimenting with various flavors to create memorable desserts. The use of rose extract imparts a distinct floral note, making these pastries a true sensory delight. The recipe has been cherished and passed down through generations, offering a glimpse into the culinary heritage of creating charming, fragrant, and delightful treats.

The history of Rose Leaves can be traced back to the 19th century when floral flavors gained popularity in both culinary and cosmetic practices. Roses, with their captivating aroma and delicate petals, became a sought-after ingredient to enhance the sensory experience of various creations. The concept of infusing rose essence into pastries allowed bakers to add a touch of elegance and refinement to their treats.

Over the years, the recipe for Rose Leaves has been refined and passed down through family traditions and community cookbooks. The delicate process of rolling the dough thin and using rose extract as a key flavoring showcases the meticulous craftsmanship that was often associated with classic baking techniques. These pastries were often enjoyed during afternoon tea gatherings, as their delicate and sophisticated nature perfectly complemented the tea-drinking ritual.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cupful sugar
• 6 tablespoonfuls Crisco (shortening)
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 teaspoonful salt
• 1 teaspoonful rose extract
• 2 cupfuls flour

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Creaming the Ingredients:
   • In a mixing bowl, cream the 6 tablespoonfuls of Crisco, gradually adding the 1 cupful of sugar.
   • Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.
2. Incorporating Eggs and Flavors:
   • Add the 2 eggs to the creamed mixture and beat well until they are fully incorporated.
   • Mix in the 1/4 teaspoonful of salt for a balanced flavor profile.
   • Incorporate the delicate fragrance of 1 teaspoonful of rose extract into the mixture, enhancing the floral essence of the pastries.
3. Adding Flour:
   • Gradually add the 2 cupfuls of flour to the mixture, ensuring it is well integrated to form a soft dough.
4. Chilling the Dough:
   • Place the dough in the refrigerator to chill. This step helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and roll out.
5. Rolling and Cutting:
   • Once chilled, roll the dough very thin on a board or countertop. Use sugar instead of flour to dust the rolling pin and board, adding a touch of sweetness to the pastry.
6. Cutting Shapes:
   • Using a small fancy cutter, cut out shapes from the rolled dough. This step gives the pastries their distinctive appearance.
7. Baking:
   • Grease baking tins with Crisco to prevent sticking.
   • Carefully place the cut-out dough shapes onto the prepared baking tins.
8. Baking Process:
   • Bake the pastries in a moderate oven at around 350°F (175°C) for approximately 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are slightly browned.
9. Final Touch:
   • Once baked, the Rose Leaves should have a delicate, crispy texture and a subtle rose aroma.
10. Yield:
    • The recipe yields approximately fifty small cakes, making it perfect for sharing during gatherings or special occasions.

In summary, Rose Leaves encapsulate the essence of delicate floral flavors within a crispy, thin pastry, inviting individuals to experience a taste of culinary history and tradition. This charming dessert offers a delightful blend of flavors and aromas, a testament to the creative evolution of baking practices over time.