Desserts > Italian Cookies > Lady Fingers

Espresso-Hazelnut Lady Fingers Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons espresso powder
- 2 tablespoons hazelnut liqueur
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons hazelnuts, finely chopped

Special Equipment Needed:
- Hand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Piping bag

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs and sugar with a hand mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Add the espresso powder, hazelnut liqueur, flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Beat until combined.
4. Add the melted butter and mix until combined.
5. Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
6. Pipe the batter onto the prepared baking sheet in 2-inch (5 cm) long strips. Sprinkle with the chopped hazelnuts.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving Size: Makes about 20 lady fingers

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 70 kcal
Fat: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Protein: 2 g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- For the eggs, you can use 2 egg whites instead.
- For the hazelnut liqueur, you can use almond extract instead.
- For the butter, you can use coconut oil instead.

Variations:
- For a chocolate version, add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter.
- For a fruity version, add 1/4 cup of chopped dried fruit to the batter.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is completely melted before adding it to the batter.
- Pipe the batter onto the baking sheet in straight lines for a more even baking.

Storage Instructions:
Store the lady fingers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the lady fingers in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
- Arrange the lady fingers on a platter and dust with powdered sugar.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Garnishes:
- Chopped hazelnuts
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate sauce

Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit
- Ice cream
- Yogurt

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the lady fingers are too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
- If the lady fingers are too soft, bake them for a few minutes longer.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before using.
- Wash your hands before and after handling the ingredients.

Food History:
Lady fingers are a type of Italian biscuit that dates back to the 18th century. They were originally made with almond flour and flavored with orange blossom water.

Flavor Profiles:
This recipe has a nutty, espresso flavor with hints of hazelnut.

Serving Suggestions:
These lady fingers are perfect for an after-dinner treat or a mid-morning snack. They can also be served with a cup of coffee or tea.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Italian

Taste: Rich, Nutty, Sweet, Espresso, Creamy, Espresso-Flavored