Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup semolina
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup candied citrus peel, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water while mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic.
Step 2: Flatten and Rest the Dough
Roll the dough into a ball and flatten it into a disc. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a saucepan, combine the semolina, sugar, and cinnamon. Add the candied citrus peel, butter, and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Step 4: Shape the Sfogliatelle
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into four equal portions. Take one portion and roll it out into a thin sheet on a floured surface. Brush the melted butter over the entire surface of the sheet.
Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the sheet into a tight cylinder. Slice the cylinder into small sections, about 1-2 inches wide.
Take each section and press it down gently, flattening it with your palm. Then, roll it out with a rolling pin to create a thin, oval-shaped piece of dough.
Place a spoonful of the filling onto one end of the oval-shaped dough. Fold the other end over the filling and pinch the edges together to seal.
Step 5: Bake the Sfogliatelle
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the prepared sfogliatelle on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with melted butter and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Remove the sfogliatelle from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Dust them with powdered sugar and serve them warm. These flaky pastries are best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.
Now that you have mastered the art of preparing authentic Neapolitan sfogliatelle, impress your friends and family with your baking skills. Buon appetito!