Desert Roses Recipe – A Sweet, Crunchy Treat
Category: Desserts
Servings: 22 pieces
If you’re looking for a treat that combines a soft, buttery base with a delightful crunch, then Desert Roses (Rose del deserto) will be your new go-to recipe. This Italian classic is known for its irresistible balance of sweetness and texture. With a mix of almond flour, butter, and corn flakes, these cookies offer a unique crunch and a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Perfect for tea time, dessert tables, or simply as a snack, they’re incredibly easy to make and bound to impress anyone who tastes them.
The recipe features a light, crumbly texture with a slight almond flavor, making it an elegant treat for any occasion. Best of all, it’s versatile enough to enjoy as a simple homemade delight or as a showstopper at your next party.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 125g |
| Almond flour | 125g |
| Corn flakes (for the dough) | 100g |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Unsalted butter (at room temperature) | 180g |
| Baking powder | 8g |
| Fine salt | 1 pinch |
| Granulated sugar | 150g |
| Vanilla extract | q.b. (to taste) |
| Corn flakes (for coating) | q.b. (as needed) |
| Powdered sugar (for dusting) | q.b. (as needed) |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~160 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Sugars | 9g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 45mg |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Dough:
Begin by placing the butter, which should be at room temperature, into a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the butter until it becomes soft and creamy. Add in the granulated sugar and a pinch of salt, then continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take around 3-4 minutes. -
Incorporate the Eggs:
Crack the eggs into the bowl one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step ensures that the butter and sugar mixture stays smooth and consistent. -
Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, sift the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and baking powder together in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently after each addition to maintain a light texture. -
Add Vanilla Flavor:
Stir in the vanilla extract to give the dough a fragrant depth. At this point, your dough should have a thick, creamy consistency. -
Mix in the Corn Flakes:
Crush the corn flakes slightly and add them to the dough. This is where the signature crunchy texture of the Rose del Deserto comes from. Mix until the corn flakes are evenly distributed throughout the dough. -
Form the Cookies:
With a spoon, scoop small portions of dough, about 1 tablespoon each, and roll them into balls using your hands. Be sure to compact the dough slightly to form a firm shape. The balls should not be too large, as they will expand during baking. -
Coat the Cookies:
Once all the dough has been shaped into balls, take a few corn flakes and crush them lightly. Roll each dough ball in the crushed corn flakes, ensuring that they are evenly coated. This will give your cookies the classic, crunchy exterior. -
Arrange and Bake:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Place the cornflake-coated dough balls on the sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 12-15 minutes or until they are lightly golden on the edges. The center should remain soft and crumbly. -
Cooling and Dusting:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the top of each cookie with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Tips for the Perfect Rose del Deserto:
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Room Temperature Butter: It’s crucial that the butter is soft enough to blend smoothly with the sugar. Cold butter will not create the right texture, and melted butter can cause the dough to spread too much.
-
Corn Flake Crunch: When crushing the corn flakes for the coating, try to leave a mix of small and larger pieces. This variation in size gives the cookies a more interesting texture.
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Baking Time: Be careful not to overbake these cookies. The key to their signature soft and crumbly center is to remove them as soon as the edges start turning golden brown.
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Flavor Variations: You can also try adding lemon zest or a dash of cinnamon to the dough for a flavor twist. The almond flour pairs well with these added notes, creating a more complex taste profile.
These Desert Roses are the perfect combination of delicate and crunchy, offering a flavor profile that will transport you straight to Italy with every bite. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, they’re a wonderful addition to any dessert spread. Whether you’re planning a special dinner, a casual gathering, or simply looking for an everyday treat, this recipe is sure to bring a touch of sweetness to your day. Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee and share the love with friends and family!
