Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Canestrelli mold or cookie cutter
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another mixing bowl, cream the butter until smooth and fluffy.
4. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until the dough comes together.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth.
7. Roll the dough out to 1/4 inch thickness.
8. Cut the dough into canestrelli shapes using a canestrelli mold or cookie cutter.
9. Place the canestrelli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
12. Dust the canestrelli with powdered sugar before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
- Makes about 24 canestrelli
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use salted butter instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the amount of salt in the recipe to 1/4 tsp.
- You can use almond extract instead of vanilla extract for a different flavor.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough for added texture and flavor.
- Dip the canestrelli in melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it.
- Don't overwork the dough, or the canestrelli will be tough.
- If you don't have a canestrelli mold, you can use a cookie cutter or even a shot glass to cut out the shapes.
Storage instructions:
- Store the canestrelli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
- If the canestrelli become stale, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes until they are crisp again.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the canestrelli on a platter and dust with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
- You can garnish the canestrelli with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Pairings:
- Serve the canestrelli with a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious snack.
Suggested side dishes:
- Canestrelli are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for a dessert.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to moisten it.
- If the canestrelli spread too much during baking, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cutting and baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all equipment before starting the recipe.
- Store the canestrelli in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
- Canestrelli are a traditional Italian cookie that originated in the Liguria region.
Flavor profiles:
- Canestrelli are buttery and tender with a hint of cinnamon.
Serving suggestions:
- Canestrelli are perfect for a tea party or as a sweet snack anytime.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Sweet, Spicy, Nutty, Cinnamon, Crunchy, Cinnamon-Flavored