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Easter is a time of joy and celebration, and what better way to indulge in the festivities than with some delightful sweet treats? If you’re looking to impress your family and friends with unique desserts this Easter, look no further. This article will guide you through two mouthwatering recipes: Casadinas and Ricotta Cakes.
Casadinas are a traditional Sardinian dessert usually prepared during Easter. These delightful pastries are filled with a delicious blend of fresh cheese, lemon zest, and saffron-infused honey. To make Casadinas, you will need:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– 3 eggs
Filling:
– 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese
– Zest of one lemon
– 1/4 cup saffron-infused honey (or regular honey for a milder flavor)
– 1 egg yolk, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, butter, sugar, baking powder, salt, and eggs. Knead the mixture until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, honey, and egg yolk until well combined. Set the filling aside.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles approximately 4 inches in diameter.
5. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the circle in half, sealing the edges tightly. You can crimp the edges with a fork to create a decorative pattern, if desired.
6. Transfer the Casadinas to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each pastry with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
The result is a batch of mouthwatering Casadinas that are both visually appealing and bursting with flavor. Serve them warm or at room temperature for a delightful Easter dessert that will leave everyone begging for more.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Ricotta Cakes are the perfect choice. These mini cakes are rich in taste and beautifully moist. Here’s how you can make them:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of one lemon
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin cups.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour and baking powder to the mixture. Stir until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean.
6. Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, dust the Ricotta Cakes with confectioners’ sugar for a finishing touch. These mini cakes are absolutely divine and pair perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee.
This Easter, surprise your loved ones with these delightful sweet treats. Whether you choose to make Casadinas or Ricotta Cakes, your desserts will surely be the highlight of the celebration. Enjoy the joyous occasion and have a hoppy Easter!
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