Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/2 cup semolina flour
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup candied orange peel, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg, beaten
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Sfogliatella molds (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and mix on low speed until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
2. Gradually add the cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for a few minutes until smooth.
3. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. In a medium bowl, combine the semolina flour, ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, candied orange peel, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet. Cut the sheet into 4-inch squares.
7. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each square. Fold the corners of the square towards the center, forming a triangle. Pinch the edges of the triangle together to seal.
8. Place the sfogliatella on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
10. Dust the sfogliatella with powdered sugar before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
Makes 12 sfogliatella
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Total fat: 12g
Saturated fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 100mg
Total carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Total sugars: 14g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Candied orange peel can be substituted with candied lemon peel or dried cranberries.
- Mascarpone cheese can be substituted with cream cheese or ricotta cheese.
Variations:
- Chocolate Sfogliatella: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the dough and use chocolate chips in the filling.
- Almond Sfogliatella: Add 1/2 cup almond flour to the dough and use almond paste in the filling.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is chilled and cubed before adding it to the flour mixture.
- If you don't have sfogliatella molds, you can shape the dough into crescents or half-moons.
- Dust the work surface and rolling pin with semolina flour to prevent the dough from sticking.
Storage Instructions:
Store the sfogliatella in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat the sfogliatella, place them in a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the sfogliatella on a platter and dust with powdered sugar. Serve with espresso or cappuccino.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh mint leaves or candied orange peel.
Pairings:
Pair with a sweet dessert wine, such as Moscato d'Asti.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or raspberries.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the sfogliatella are not sealing properly, brush the edges with a little water before pinching them together.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling food. Store the sfogliatella in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food History:
Sfogliatella is a traditional pastry from Naples, Italy. It is believed to have been created by nuns in a convent in the 17th century.
Flavor Profiles:
The sfogliatella has a flaky, buttery crust and a sweet, creamy filling with hints of orange, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the sfogliatella as a dessert or a sweet snack. They are perfect for a holiday party or a special occasion.
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