Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Using a pastry cutter or two knives, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the cold water and mix until the dough comes together.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth.
6. Roll out the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness.
7. In a medium bowl, combine the coconut, cranberries, walnuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, brown sugar, orange juice, melted butter, and orange zest.
9. Spread the honey mixture over the rolled out dough.
10. Sprinkle the coconut mixture over the honey mixture.
11. Roll up the dough, jelly roll style, and cut into 1-inch slices.
12. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet.
13. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees F
Serving Size: Makes 24 slices
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 150
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Coconut: You can substitute almond flakes or chopped pecans.
- Cranberries: You can substitute raisins or dried cherries.
- Walnuts: You can substitute chopped almonds or pecans.
- Honey: You can substitute agave nectar or maple syrup.
- Orange Juice: You can substitute freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Variations:
- You can add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the filling for a sweeter version.
- You can add 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger to the filling for a spicier version.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is cold when you add it to the dough.
- Use a light touch when rolling out the dough.
- Make sure the slices are evenly cut so they bake evenly.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350 degree F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the slices on a platter with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Pairings:
Pair with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the slices are not baking evenly, try rotating the baking sheet halfway through the baking time.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before baking.
Food History:
Cuccidati is an Italian cookie that is traditionally served during the holidays. It is believed to have originated in Sicily.
Flavor Profiles:
This cookie has a sweet and nutty flavor with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or as an after-dinner treat.
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Region: Italian