Italian Mini Holiday Pies Recipe
Description: In my family, we call these delicious little pies “Crochette”. They are made in a muffin tin and are an elegant dessert to be served at any holiday or party with your favorite cappuccino or espresso. Trust me, they’re worth the effort!
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Servings: 12 pies
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup | Sugar |
| 1/4 cup | Unsalted butter |
| 2 cups | Flour |
| 2 | Eggs |
| 4 tbsp | Water |
| 1 cup | Whole milk ricotta cheese |
| 2 tbsp | Confectioners’ sugar |
| 6 tbsp | Vanilla |
| 2 | Lemons, zest of |
| 1/4 cup | Chocolate chips |
| 1/2 cup | Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting) |
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, cream together sugar and softened butter until smooth.
- Add egg yolks one at a time to the mixture, alternating with flour, added gradually.
- Pour in water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is smooth and well incorporated.
- On a lightly floured board, roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch.
- Cut the dough into pieces large enough to fit into the individual muffin molds and up the sides.
- Crimp the edges of the dough as you would a pie crust. The dough is forgiving and can be easily manipulated to fit the mold or repair torn areas.
- Roll out the extra dough and cut thin strips to make an “X” on top of the filling.
- In a large bowl with an electric mixer or in a food processor, combine the ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Fold in the chocolate chips by hand, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Fill each muffin mold 3/4 full with the ricotta mixture.
- Place the dough strips in an “X” shape on top of each pie.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the pies for 50 minutes or until lightly golden in color.
- Allow the pies to cool in the tin before carefully removing them.
- Dust the cooled pies with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
- Serve and enjoy these delightful Italian mini holiday pies!
These mini holiday pies are perfect for any festive occasion, whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or just a special gathering with loved ones. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese, sweet chocolate chips, and fragrant lemon zest makes for a truly irresistible treat. Pair them with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy and indulgent dessert experience. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your guests with these delectable Italian delights! 🥧✨
