I don't really blog much being on Facebook & Instagram but plan on getting back to it this coming year to be able to share more recipes & things to inspire some of you.
Here's a start...
CUCIDATI-meaning " little bracelets"...love this name!
Every year I bake these tradition Italian fig cookies also know as " Cucidati" Truly little treasures that melt in your mouth. They originated from Sicily ( where my grandmother on my mothers side is from) so I love to make them. I have had many ask for my recipe so here it is enjoy and if you have any question feel free to message me.
you can cut them like tiny logs above
or shape them in tiny half moon shaped crescents adding little slits.
Ingredients
Filling
2 cups dried figs
1/2 cup dried dates
1 cup yellow raisins ( I don't add them all the time)
3/4 cup almonds
3/4 cup whole walnuts
1/2 cup orange marmalade
1/2 cup of honey
1/4 cup brandy or rum
1 tea freshly grated orange zest
1 tea cinnamon
1/2 tea nutmeg
1/2 ground cloves
I basically pre chop all the dried fruit first in tiny pieces then add ever thing to my food processer blend until it is a paste but not too pasty
Dough
four cups of flour ( can replace with gluten free flour if you want)
3/4 cups of sugar ( can replace with xylitol) excellent sugar replacement.
1 tbl plus one tea of baking powder.
1/2 tea salt
two sticks butter cut up in cubes
one large egg
1/2 cup milk ( I use almond milk) you can use what you like.
I tbl vanilla
1 egg for wash be sure to brush tops with eggs whites or white & yoke before baking
sprinkles I like the ones pictured best.
make your dough first then roll in a ball cut in quarters wrap in plastic wrap and chill.
make filling.
when dough is hard, take out roll out on floured surface to create your dough to fill and roll up.
I usually roll into a rectangular shape, place the filling in a straight line then roll up, shape how ever you like and cut them.
place back in fridge to chill again be sure to brush with egg was & sprinkles then put into a 375 preheated oven for about 15 mins or until golden. watch them so they do not burn you can also turn then as they cook I do.
they are work but are the best cookies and will become a Holiday favorite!
It's work but you only make them once a year so go for it!!!
I think I love making pottery so much because it's like baking to me...I have been working on a new website that is still a work in progress.. feel free to take a peek if you wish to shop for a special gift. I will be adding my own Organic custom tea line this year, many new pottery designs I am creating and am very excited to share.
Wishing you all blessings, peace and everything great in 2014. So make something sweet to start off your New Year!
God Bless You Always!!! Laura
www.lauravenosa.com
