Rame di Napoli Recipe: A Sweet Italian Delight
Rame di Napoli are delightful Italian cookies that blend rich flavors like dark chocolate, orange, and a hint of spice. The delicate balance of sweetness from honey and orange marmalade, combined with the crunch of pistachios, makes these treats a perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea. The name “Rame di Napoli” (Naples’ Branches) comes from their unique shape and the delicious, indulgent filling that forms a tasty bite-sized treat. Follow these detailed instructions to create this authentic dessert.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour (00) | 225g |
| Whole milk | 200g |
| Vegetable margarine | 50g |
| Granulated sugar | 100g |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 50g |
| Baking powder | 8g |
| Ground cinnamon | 1g |
| Ground cloves | 1g |
| Multiflower honey | 20g |
| Orange zest | ยฝ orange |
| Dark chocolate | 100g |
| Vegetable margarine (for coating) | 60g |
| Orange marmalade | 30g |
| Crushed pistachios | 20g |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 8g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
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Melt the margarine: Start by melting 50g of vegetable margarine. You can do this by placing it in a microwave-safe bowl and heating it in the microwave or by using a double boiler. Once melted, set it aside to cool.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 100g of granulated sugar, 1g of ground cloves, 8g of baking powder, 50g of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1g of ground cinnamon. Stir the mixture to ensure all dry ingredients are well incorporated.
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Add the orange zest: Grate ยฝ an orange to extract the zest. Add it to the dry ingredients for an aromatic citrus boost that complements the spices.
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Combine wet and dry ingredients: Sift 225g of all-purpose flour into the dry mixture. Gradually add 200g of whole milk to the bowl, alternating with the sifted flour. Mix gently with a spatula until the dough comes together.
Step 2: Form and Bake the Cookies
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Shape the cookies: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon, scoop small portions of dough and form them into little balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Use another spoon to help release the dough from the first spoon. Ensure that the cookies are spaced evenly apart.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 180ยฐC (350ยฐF) in static mode. Once the oven is heated, bake the cookies for approximately 15 minutes. The cookies should firm up and slightly rise but remain soft in texture. After baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Coating
- Melt the chocolate: Chop 100g of dark chocolate into small pieces. Place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method). Stir until fully melted, then add 60g of vegetable margarine to the melted chocolate and mix until smooth and shiny.
Step 4: Coat the Cookies
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Spread the orange marmalade: Once the cookies have cooled, take a small amount of orange marmalade (about 1 teaspoon per cookie) and spread it over the top of each cookie. The marmalade adds a sweet citrus flavor that complements the chocolate and spices perfectly.
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Dip in chocolate: Carefully dip each marmalade-coated cookie into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Gently lift the cookie from the chocolate and place it back on the parchment paper.
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Add pistachios: While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle each cookie with crushed pistachios to add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor. This step enhances the presentation and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Step 5: Let the Chocolate Set
- Allow the coating to set: Let the cookies sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours, allowing the chocolate to harden and the flavors to meld together. This will ensure a glossy, smooth finish and a satisfying bite when you enjoy them later.
Serving Suggestions
Rame di Napoli can be served as a sophisticated dessert at any gathering, or enjoyed as an indulgent treat with your afternoon tea. These cookies are versatile enough for any occasion, whether itโs a holiday celebration, a casual get-together, or as a thoughtful gift wrapped in parchment paper and a ribbon.
Storage Tips
To maintain the freshness of these cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time. You can also freeze the cookies before coating them in chocolate. Once the cookies have cooled, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw them at room temperature and then complete the coating process.
Conclusion
This Rame di Napoli recipe offers a delightful way to experience the flavors of Naples through a delicate, flavorful cookie that combines sweet, spicy, and nutty notes. The process, while requiring some patience, results in an elegant treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of dark chocolate, honey, and orange marmalade creates a harmonious balance of flavors, while the crushed pistachios provide a satisfying crunch. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want to enjoy a piece of Italy at home, these cookies are an absolute must-try.
Enjoy your Rame di Napoli and indulge in the sweet tastes of Italian tradition!
