Desserts > Italian > Panpepati

Panpepato with Dried Figs and Dates Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped dried figs
- 1/2 cup chopped pitted dates
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 1/4 cup candied orange peel
- 1/4 cup candied lemon peel
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Pinch of salt

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food processor

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line the bottom of the springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides with butter or cooking spray.

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cocoa powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, black pepper, and salt.

3. In another mixing bowl, combine the honey and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.

4. Add the chopped dried figs, dates, almonds, hazelnuts, candied orange peel, candied lemon peel, raisins, and chopped dark chocolate to the honey mixture. Stir until well combined.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the honey mixture, stirring until everything is well combined.

6. Transfer the mixture to a food processor and pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped and well combined.

7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared springform pan and press it down firmly with a spoon or your hands.

8. Bake the panpepato for 35-40 minutes, or until it is firm to the touch.

9. Remove the panpepato from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.

10. Once cooled, remove the panpepato from the pan and peel off the parchment paper.

11. Cut the panpepato into small squares or wedges and serve.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Temperature:
325°F (160°C)
Serving size:
Makes 12-16 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Total fat: 10g
Saturated fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 20mg
Total carbohydrate: 40g
Dietary fiber: 4g
Total sugars: 30g
Protein: 5g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almond flour can be substituted with hazelnut flour or coconut flour.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with coconut sugar or granulated sugar.
- Dried figs and dates can be substituted with other dried fruits, such as apricots, prunes, or cranberries.
- Candied orange and lemon peel can be substituted with fresh orange and lemon zest.
- Dark chocolate can be substituted with milk chocolate or white chocolate.

Variations:
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Replace the cocoa powder with carob powder for a caffeine-free version.
- Add a splash of rum or brandy to the honey mixture for a boozy twist.
- Use different spices, such as cardamom, ginger, or anise, for a different flavor profile.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to press the mixture down firmly in the pan to ensure it holds together.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water or orange juice to help it come together.
- Store the panpepato in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Serve the panpepato with a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious snack.

Storage Instructions:
Store the panpepato in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Reheating Instructions:
The panpepato can be served at room temperature or slightly warmed in the oven or microwave.

Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the panpepato squares or wedges on a platter and dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Garnishes:
Garnish the panpepato with chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate shavings.

Pairings:
Pair the panpepato with a glass of red wine or a cup of hot cocoa.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve the panpepato with fresh fruit, such as grapes or berries, or a cheese platter.

Troubleshooting Advice:
If the panpepato is too dry, add a tablespoon of water or orange juice to help it come together.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to use clean hands and utensils when handling the ingredients. Store the panpepato in an airtight container to prevent contamination.

Food History:
Panpepato is a traditional Italian dessert that originated in the city of Siena in Tuscany. It is a dense, spicy cake made with nuts, dried fruit, and spices, and is often served during the Christmas season.

Flavor Profiles:
The panpepato has a rich, chocolatey flavor with hints of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. The dried fruit and nuts add a chewy, crunchy texture.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve the panpepato as a dessert or snack with a cup of coffee or tea.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Spicy, Fruity, Aromatic