Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup candied orange peel
Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the butter and mix on low speed until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
4. Add the eggs, buttermilk, orange zest, and vanilla extract and mix until the dough comes together.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth.
6. Roll the dough out to a thickness of 1/4 inch (6 mm).
7. Cut the dough into 2-inch (5 cm) circles and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Brush the tops of the circles with egg wash and sprinkle with the almonds, raisins, and candied orange peel.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving Size: Makes 24 circles
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 150
Fat: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Protein: 3 g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Unsalted butter can be substituted for salted butter.
- Buttermilk can be substituted with regular milk.
- Almonds can be substituted with other nuts such as walnuts or pecans.
- Raisins can be substituted with other dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots.
- Candied orange peel can be substituted with other candied fruits such as cherries or pineapple.
Variations:
- The dough can be flavored with other extracts such as almond or lemon.
- The dough can be flavored with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg.
- The dough can be rolled out into shapes such as stars or hearts.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is cold when adding it to the dough.
- Use a pastry brush to evenly spread the egg wash over the top of the circles.
- Let the circles cool completely before serving.
Storage instructions:
Cassatella di Sant'Agata can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
Cassatella di Sant'Agata can be reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Cassatella di Sant'Agata can be served on a platter with a variety of fruits and nuts.
Garnishes:
Cassatella di Sant'Agata can be garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey.
Pairings:
Cassatella di Sant'Agata pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk.
Suggested side dishes:
Cassatella di Sant'Agata can be served with a side of fresh fruit or a salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of buttermilk at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- If the dough is too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Wash hands thoroughly before handling food.
- Keep cooked food at a safe temperature.
Food history:
Cassatella di Sant'Agata is a traditional Italian dessert that originated in the city of Sant'Agata in Sicily. It is made with a simple dough that is flavored with orange zest and vanilla and topped with almonds, raisins, and candied orange peel.
Flavor profiles:
Cassatella di Sant'Agata has a sweet, citrusy flavor with hints of vanilla and almond.
Serving suggestions:
Cassatella di Sant'Agata can be served as a dessert or a snack.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Sweet, Citrusy, Creamy, Vanilla, Vanilla-Scented