butineuses

Butineuses are a type of French pastry, traditionally made with puff pastry and filled with a sweet cream or fruit preserve. The name "butineuse" translates to "gatherer" in French, which may allude to the pastry's layered texture resembling a gathered skirt or its sweet filling reminiscent of gathered fruits. While specific origins are difficult to pinpoint, they are often associated with regional baking traditions in France, particularly in areas known for their patisseries.

The typical preparation involves a delicate puff pastry dough, which is folded and rolled multiple times to create its characteristic flaky layers. This dough is then shaped, often into a small, individual tart or a more elaborate decorative form. The filling is usually a vanilla-flavored pastry cream, sometimes enhanced with a touch of liqueur, or a rich fruit compote, with apricot and raspberry being common choices. After baking until golden brown, butineuses are often dusted with powdered sugar or glazed. They are generally served as a dessert or a sweet accompaniment to coffee or tea. Variations can include different fruit fillings or the addition of nuts, but the core elements of puff pastry and a sweet filling remain consistent.