1. What are Canestrelli?
Canestrelli are traditional Italian cookies with a rich history. These delicate pastries often have a flower or shell-like shape and are made from a blend of flour, butter, sugar, and lemon zest. They are characterized by their crumbly texture and irresistible buttery flavor. Canestrelli are usually served during special occasions such as Christmas or Easter, making them a true culinary delight.
2. Classic Canestrelli Recipe
To prepare the classic canestrelli recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 250g all-purpose flour
- 150g unsalted butter (softened)
- 100g powdered sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- A pinch of salt
Here’s how to make them:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- Gradually add the flour and knead until you obtain a soft, homogeneous dough.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Take small portions of dough and shape them into canestrelli using a special canestrello mold or by pressing the dough with the tines of a fork.
- Place the shaped canestrelli onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden.
- Allow the canestrelli to cool completely before serving.
3. Savory Variation: Parmesan and Rosemary Canestrelli
If you’re looking to give your canestrelli a savory twist, try this delightful Parmesan and Rosemary variation. The recipe is similar to the classic canestrelli, but with a few additions. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 250g all-purpose flour
- 150g unsalted butter (softened)
- 100g powdered sugar
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- A pinch of salt
Follow the same instructions mentioned in the classic canestrelli recipe, adding the Parmesan cheese and dried rosemary along with the other ingredients. The result is a wonderful combination of flavors making these canestrelli perfect for pairing with a glass of wine or serving as appetizers at a gathering.
There you have it! With these savory canestrelli recipes, you can impress your guests or simply enjoy a delightful treat for yourself. Remember, cooking is all about passion and creativity, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and shapes. We hope you enjoy this culinary adventure and stay tuned for more appetizing recipes in our upcoming blog posts. Happy cooking!