Desserts > Italian > Sicilian

Cassatella di Sant'Agata with Hazelnuts and Raisins Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons orange zest

Special Equipment Needed:
- Bowl
- Whisk
- Skillet
- Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter, milk, hazelnuts, raisins, honey, and orange zest.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.
6. Serve warm with additional honey and orange zest, if desired.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 minutes
Temperature: Medium heat
Serving Size: Makes 8-10 Cassatella di Sant'Agata

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 27 g
Protein: 4 g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: can be substituted with olive oil
- Milk: can be substituted with almond milk or other non-dairy milk
- Hazelnuts: can be substituted with other nuts such as almonds or walnuts
- Raisins: can be substituted with other dried fruits such as cranberries or dates
- Honey: can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar

Variations:
- Add other spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter
- Add other dried fruits such as cranberries or dates
- Add chopped dark chocolate for a richer flavor

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to not overmix the batter or the Cassatella di Sant'Agata will be tough
- Cook the Cassatella di Sant'Agata in batches to ensure even cooking
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the Cassatella di Sant'Agata with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Garnishes:
Garnish with additional honey and orange zest.

Pairings:
Pair with a cup of espresso or cappuccino.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
If the Cassatella di Sant'Agata are not cooking evenly, reduce the heat and cook for a few minutes longer.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the Cassatella di Sant'Agata in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.

Food History:
Cassatella di Sant'Agata is a traditional Sicilian dessert that is said to have originated in the town of Sant'Agata di Militello. It is a fried pastry that is usually served with honey and orange zest.

Flavor Profiles:
The Cassatella di Sant'Agata have a sweet and nutty flavor from the hazelnuts and raisins, and a hint of citrus from the orange zest.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Cassatella di Sant'Agata as a dessert or snack.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Fruity, Aromatic