Cantucci
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked Cantucci wafting through the kitchen. I remember the first time I encountered these delightful Italian almond cookies, during a family trip to Tuscany. As we strolled through the sun-drenched piazzas, a charming little bakery caught my eye. The inviting scent of roasted almonds and sweet dough drew me in, and I couldn’t resist trying a few of these crunchy treats. The crisp texture and nutty flavor were unlike anything I had ever tasted, and I knew I had to learn how to make them myself.
Now, every time I whip up a batch of Cantucci, it feels like I’m bringing a piece of Italy into my home. These cookies are perfect for dipping in coffee or dessert wine, making them a delightful end to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying them during a festive gathering or savoring them on a quiet afternoon, they always bring joy. I love to share them with friends and family, and it’s such a pleasure to see their faces light up with every bite.
Making Cantucci is not just about following a recipe; it’s about embracing the experience and the rich Italian tradition that goes along with it. So let’s dive in and discover how to create these scrumptious cookies together!
Recipe Snapshot
55 mins
40 mins
15 mins
Hard
150 kcal
4 g
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free
5 g
Frying Pan, Oven, Peeler, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
Why We Love This Cantucci
They Are Perfectly Crunchy
One of the best things about Cantucci is their delightful crunch. The twice-baking process ensures that they become beautifully crisp, making them perfect for dipping in your favorite beverages. I love to soak mine in a warm cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine. The contrast between the crunchy cookie and the smooth beverage creates a heavenly experience that’s hard to beat.
Flavorful Almonds
The star ingredient in these cookies is the almonds. Roasting them before mixing them into the dough enhances their natural flavor, creating a deeper, richer taste. I recommend using whole, high-quality almonds for the best results. The added texture of the nuts adds to the overall experience, giving each cookie a delightful crunch.
Simple Ingredients
What I love most about Cantucci is how simple the ingredients are. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up these treats in no time. The combination of flour, sugar, and eggs forms the base, while the baking powder gives them that perfect rise. It’s a reminder that delicious things don’t have to be complicated.
A Taste of Italy
Every bite of Cantucci transports me back to Italy. The balance of flavors and textures is a true representation of Italian baking. It’s not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about experiencing a culture through food. Each cookie tells a story, inviting you to indulge in a bit of Italian history.
Great for Sharing
These cookies are not only delightful to eat, but they also make wonderful gifts. When I host gatherings or visit friends and family, I often bring along a batch of Cantucci. Their elegant presentation in a decorative box or tied with a ribbon makes them a thoughtful gift that anyone would be delighted to receive.
Versatile Treat
What’s great about Cantucci is their versatility. You can easily customize the flavors by adding ingredients like chocolate chips, or even dried fruits. Each variation brings a new twist to the classic recipe, allowing you to experiment and find your perfect version.
FAQ
Conclusion
Making Cantucci is not just about baking cookies; it’s a journey through Italian heritage that can be enjoyed at any gathering or quiet moment. This recipe captures the essence of simplicity and tradition, allowing you to create something truly special. I encourage you to try making these delightful cookies yourself and share them with loved ones. They’re bound to become a favorite!
Cantucci
Equipment
- Frying Pan
- Oven
- Peeler
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 300 g Flour extra for sprinkling
- 3 large Eggs plus 1 egg for glazing
- 100 g Almonds whole, roasted
- 1/2 sachet Baking Powder
- 150 g Sugar
- 1 tsp Orange Powder dried, ground orange peel
- 1 tsp Vanilla Essence
- 1 tsp Amaretto
- 1/2 tsp Salt
Instructions
- Start by heating your oven to 180 C degrees (356 F). This is the perfect temperature for roasting those delicious almonds.
- Place the almonds in a non-stick tray and bake them for about 10 minutes, keeping an eye on them to make sure they don't burn.
- Once done, remove the tray from the oven and set the almonds aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix the eggs with the sugar thoroughly. You want the mixture to become light and fluffy.
- Add in the vanilla essence and a teaspoon of amaretto to the egg mixture and mix it all together.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, orange powder, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, stirring until it forms a soft dough.
- Once your dough is ready, turn it onto a well-floured worktop and knead it until it no longer feels sticky. You can add more flour if necessary.
- Gently fold the almonds into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Divide the dough into 4 equal parts, and roll each piece into a log measuring 10 to 15 cm (3.9 to 5.9 inches).
- Line a baking tray with baking paper and place each log on it, spacing them apart for baking.
- Raise the oven temperature to 200 C degrees (390 F) and brush each log with the beaten egg.
- When the oven is hot, bake the logs for about 15 minutes until they are golden brown.
- After baking, take them out and let them cool slightly before slicing.
- Cut each log diagonally into slices about 2 cm (0.8 inches) thick using a serrated knife if available.
- Return the slices back to the baking tray and put them back into the oven without reheating for an additional 10 minutes to dry the cookies.
- Finally, allow the cookies to cool completely before enjoying them!
Notes
- Storage: Keep your Cantucci in an airtight container to maintain their crunchiness. They can last for weeks if stored properly.
- Freezing: You can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.
- Variations: Experiment with different flavorings or nuts. You can add chocolate chunks or substitute almonds with hazelnuts for a different taste.
- Serving: Serve them with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair wonderfully with dessert wines.
- Occasions: These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
