Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup chopped dried figs
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup chopped candied orange peel
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large bowl
- Electric mixer
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in the pecans, figs, marmalade, brandy, and candied orange peel.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
8. Cut the dough into 2-inch squares and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes about 24 cookies
Nutritional Information (per cookie):
Calories: 140
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Butter: Can be substituted with vegan margarine or coconut oil
- Granulated sugar: Can be substituted with coconut sugar or maple syrup
- Eggs: Can be substituted with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water)
- Orange marmalade: Can be substituted with apricot jam or any other type of jam
- Brandy: Can be substituted with orange juice or apple juice
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a sweeter cookie
- Substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds
- Substitute the figs with raisins or dates
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to roll out the dough evenly so that the cookies bake evenly
- To ensure the cookies don’t spread too much, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the cookies on a platter with fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Pairings:
Pair with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of Greek yogurt or a fruit salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the cookies spread too much, make sure to chill the dough before baking.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
Food History:
Cuccidati is an Italian cookie that is traditionally served during the Christmas season. It is believed to have originated in Sicily and is made with a variety of dried fruits and nuts.
Flavor Profiles:
This cookie has a sweet and nutty flavor with hints of orange and brandy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an after-dinner treat or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
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Region: Italian