laitières

Laitières, also known as "little milkmaids," is a term that can refer to several things, most commonly a specific type of French pastry and a historical profession.

In the realm of confectionery, a laitière is a small, often sweet pastry. These can vary in preparation and ingredients depending on the region and baker, but they often feature a creamy or milky filling, as suggested by the name. They are typically delicate and are enjoyed as a dessert or a light snack. Recipes may include ingredients like custard, whipped cream, or sweetened milk, often encased in puff pastry, shortcrust, or choux dough. The appearance of a laitière pastry can range from simple rounds to more elaborate shapes.

Historically, "laitière" also referred to a milkmaid, a woman whose job was to milk cows and often to transport or sell the milk. This was a common and essential role in rural communities for centuries. The image of the laitière is often romanticized in art and literature, depicting a woman with a pail of milk, symbolizing simple rural life and the bounty of nature. The profession declined with the advent of industrialized dairy farming and modern milk processing and distribution methods.