Canestrelli are a beloved traditional Italian cookie, known for their delicate star shape and powdered sugar dusting. These cookies are a staple in Italian bakeries, offering a sweet, buttery taste with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them irresistible. This blog post will guide you through the step-by-step process of making authentic Canestrelli right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the process, let's gather all the necessary ingredients:
- 250 grams of all-purpose flour
- 150 grams of unsalted butter (softened)
- 100 grams of powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon of grated lemon zest
- 50 grams of ground almonds or almond meal
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mixing the Dough
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour and salt. Add the ground almonds and stir to combine.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the butter with powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Incorporate the egg yolk, vanilla essence, and lemon zest, mixing well.
- Incorporate Dry Into Wet: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined, taking care not to overmix, which can lead to a tough cookie.
Shaping the Cookies
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to make it easier to work with.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1⁄2 inch thick. Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out the cookies. If you want the traditional Canestrelli look, use a smaller star or round cutter to remove the center from each cookie.
Baking
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, keeping them about 2 cm apart.
- Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn a light golden color. Remember, Canestrelli should remain pale with just a hint of color.
- Remove from oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dusting
Once completely cooled, dust the cookies generously with powdered sugar.
🍪 Note: Dusting the cookies when they are hot can cause the sugar to melt slightly, giving them a glossy look which is quite charming but not traditional.
In crafting Canestrelli, the beauty lies in the simplicity of the ingredients and the precision of the process. Each step contributes to the delicate texture and flavor profile that defines these Italian treasures. The subtle vanilla and lemon flavors, combined with the buttery richness, make these cookies a delightful treat for any occasion.
Can I use margarine instead of butter in Canestrelli?
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While you can use margarine, butter provides a richer flavor and better texture for traditional Canestrelli. However, for dietary restrictions, margarine can work but may alter the taste slightly.
How long can I store Canestrelli?
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Canestrelli can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them; they can last for several months if properly sealed.
What can I use if I don’t have a star-shaped cookie cutter?
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You can use any shaped cutter available, or even create a star shape by hand with a knife or a cardboard template. The essence is in the taste, not the exact shape.
