Homemade Canestrelli
Canestrelli are traditional Italian cookies that are delicate, buttery, and often enjoyed during festive occasions. These pretty flower-shaped cookies are a wonderful treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. With just a few simple ingredients, you can bring a taste of Italy into your home.
Why Make This Recipe
Making homemade Canestrelli is a great way to share a piece of Italian culture with friends and family. They not only look beautiful but also offer a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience. Plus, these cookies are perfect for special occasions or just as a tasty treat with your morning coffee. Their easy preparation makes them a fun baking project for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.
How to Make Homemade Canestrelli
Ingredients
- 200g all-purpose flour
- 100g unsalted butter, softened
- 80g powdered sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into a log and cut into rounds.
- Shape each round into a flower shape using a canestrelli mold or by hand.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
How to Serve Homemade Canestrelli
Serve your Canestrelli on a decorative plate, dusted with powdered sugar for a lovely presentation. They pair perfectly with coffee, tea, or even as a sweet treat after dinner.
How to Store Homemade Canestrelli
Store your Canestrelli in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep well for up to a week, maintaining their delicious flavor and texture.
Tips to Make Homemade Canestrelli
- Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing.
- Don’t overbake the cookies; keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect light golden color.
- If you don’t have a canestrelli mold, you can shape them by hand without too much difficulty.
Variation
You can experiment by adding lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing twist, or dipping the cooled cookies in melted chocolate for a decadent addition.
FAQs
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
2. Are Canestrelli gluten-free?
No, this recipe contains all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make gluten-free Canestrelli, you would need a gluten-free flour blend.
3. Can I freeze Canestrelli?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies. Just make sure they are well wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature.
