Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup golden raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped dates
- 1/2 cup chopped dried figs
Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until combined.
5. Add the vanilla and maple syrup and mix until combined.
6. Slowly add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
7. Fold in the pecans, raisins, dates, and figs.
8. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
9. Cut the dough into 2-inch circles and place on a baking sheet.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Let cool before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes 24 cookies
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 150
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- For the all-purpose flour, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour.
- For the butter, you can use coconut oil or vegan butter.
- For the granulated sugar, you can use coconut sugar or brown sugar.
- For the maple syrup, you can use honey or agave nectar.
- For the pecans, you can use walnuts or almonds.
- For the raisins, you can use dried cranberries or dried cherries.
- For the dates, you can use dried apricots or dried apples.
- For the figs, you can use dried pineapple or dried mango.
Variations:
- For a spicier version, add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg to the dough.
- For a sweeter version, add 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough.
- For a crunchier version, add 1/2 cup of chopped almonds or walnuts to the dough.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a softer cookie, bake for 10-12 minutes.
- For a crispier cookie, bake for 14-15 minutes.
- For a chewier cookie, add an extra egg to the dough.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the cookies on a platter with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pecans 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 scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of apple pie.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the cookies are too dry, add an extra egg to the dough.
Food Safety Advice:
Keep the cookies stored in an airtight container and consume within 5 days.
Food History:
Cuccidati is an Italian cookie that is traditionally made with figs, dates, and raisins. It is often served during the holidays and is a popular treat in Italy.
Flavor Profiles:
This cookie has a sweet and nutty flavor with hints of maple and vanilla.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
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: Sweet, Nutty, Maple, Chewy, Maple-Flavored