Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar, for sprinkling
Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Dough hook
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add the melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix on low speed until combined.
4. Add the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest and mix until just combined.
5. Using a spoon or your hands, form the dough into small ciambelli (rings) and place on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Sprinkle the tops of the ciambelli with turbinado sugar.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes 12 ciambelli
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 170
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 19 g
Protein: 4 g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Unsalted butter: Coconut oil or vegan butter
- Whole milk: Almond milk or oat milk
- Ricotta cheese: Cottage cheese or Greek yogurt
Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough for a different flavor.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced version.
- Substitute orange juice and zest for the lemon juice and zest.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter has cooled completely before adding it to the dough.
- For a crunchier ciambelli, sprinkle with additional turbinado sugar before baking.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Garnishes:
- Chopped nuts
- Dried fruit
- Whipped cream
- Honey
- Powdered sugar
Pairings:
- Fresh fruit
- Coffee or tea
- Yogurt
Suggested Side Dishes:
- A green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled fruit
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add additional flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it is easier to work with.
- If the ciambelli are too dry, add additional milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Food Safety Advice:
- Keep the ciambelli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate any leftovers and consume within 3 days.
Food History:
Ciambelli are traditional Italian cookies that are believed to have originated in the Campania region of Italy. They are usually made with ricotta cheese, which gives them a soft and moist texture.
Flavor Profiles:
The ciambelli have a sweet and tart flavor from the combination of lemon juice and zest, and a subtle hint of vanilla. The ricotta cheese adds a creamy richness to the cookies.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Serve as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
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Region: Italian