Just when you thought cookies couldn’t get any more interesting, along comes the cucidati, a Sicilian masterpiece that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. These fig-stuffed delights are a holiday tradition, but we say they’re too good to save for just one season.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of sweet figs, nuts, and spices wrapped in a tender dough creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Traditional techniques ensure authenticity, while our tips make the process accessible to bakers of all levels.
- These cookies freeze beautifully, making them a great make-ahead option for busy times.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup dried figs, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cloves
- 1/4 cup orange juice
Equipment Needed
- Food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Knife
- Pastry brush
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Add to the flour mixture and pulse until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the dough chills, make the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the figs, walnuts, honey, cinnamon, cloves, and orange juice. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed and the mixture holds together when pressed.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into rectangles, spoon a bit of filling onto each, then fold over and seal the edges. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, make sure your butter is cold when making the dough. This ensures a flaky texture. If the dough is too sticky when rolling, chill it for a bit longer. And don’t overfill the cookies, or they might burst open during baking. Experiment with different nuts or spices in the filling to make it your own.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the walnuts for almonds or pistachios for a different flavor profile.
- Add a splash of rum or brandy to the filling for an adult version.
- Drizzle the baked cookies with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh figs instead of dried?
While dried figs are traditional and provide the right texture and sweetness, you can use fresh figs in a pinch. Just be aware that the filling may be wetter, so you might need to adjust the other ingredients accordingly.
How long do these cookies keep?
Stored in an airtight container, cucidati will keep for up to a week at room temperature. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be made and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before rolling.
Summary
Cucidati are a delightful treat that brings a taste of Sicily to your kitchen. With their rich fig filling and tender dough, they’re sure to become a favorite.