Biscotti degli Innamorati: Sweet Love Biscuits
A delightful treat to celebrate love, Biscotti degli Innamorati, or “Sweet Love Biscuits,” are deliciously buttery and perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or a romantic gesture. These charming biscuits are not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes, decorated with sugar, colorful glazes, or sweet strawberry jam. The soft, crisp texture and subtle lemony flavor make them a true indulgence.
This recipe will guide you through the steps to create these heartwarming biscuits, perfect for sharing with someone special. Whether you’re making them for a loved one, a gathering, or simply because you crave something sweet, these biscuits will surely impress.
Ingredients (for 1 serving)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 130g |
| All-purpose flour (Farina 00) | 280g |
| Granulated sugar (Zucchero) | 100g |
| Lemon zest (Scorza di limone) | 1 |
| Fine salt (Sale fino) | 1 pinch |
| Baking powder (Lievito in polvere per dolci) | 8g |
| Whole egg (Uova) | 1 |
| Egg yolk (Tuorli) | 1 |
| Powdered sugar (Zucchero a velo) | To taste |
| Strawberry jam (Marmellata di fragole) | To taste |
| Food coloring (Coloranti alimentari) | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Butter Mixture:
Begin by cutting the butter into cubes and placing it into a mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer or a food processor, beat the butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. -
Add Eggs and Mix:
Add the whole egg and egg yolk to the butter-sugar mixture. Continue to beat until the ingredients are well incorporated, and the mixture is light and fluffy. -
Create the Dough:
Transfer the mixture onto a clean work surface (preferably a floured countertop). Gradually add in the flour, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest. Mix everything together until you have a smooth, homogeneous dough. -
Chill the Dough:
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out and shape. -
Roll Out the Dough:
Once chilled, remove the dough from the fridge. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 0.5 cm thickness. -
Cut Out Biscuit Shapes:
Use cookie cutters to cut out heart-shaped biscuits, or any other shape you prefer. Space the cut-out biscuits evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. -
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Bake the biscuits in the oven for about 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown on the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking. -
Cool and Decorate:
Once baked, remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. -
Glaze and Fill:
For a lovely finish, dust the biscuits with powdered sugar. If you’d like, prepare a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a small amount of water or lemon juice. The glaze should be smooth and thick, similar to white glue in consistency. Use a small brush or spoon to paint the glaze over the biscuits. You can also create decorative patterns or write messages with food coloring. -
Optional Jam Filling:
For a more indulgent treat, you can add a dollop of strawberry jam. Simply take two heart-shaped biscuits, spread one with a layer of strawberry jam, and then top with the other. The jam will seep through the hole in the heart shape for a beautiful and tasty effect.
Tips for Perfect Biscotti degli Innamorati:
- Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is not too soft. If it’s too sticky to roll out, add a little more flour.
- Glazing Options: You can also experiment with different colored glazes or sprinkles to create festive variations for different holidays or celebrations.
- Filling Alternatives: Strawberry jam works wonderfully, but you can also try raspberry, apricot, or even a chocolate spread for a twist on this classic recipe.
- Storage: These biscuits can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, keeping them fresh and ready to enjoy at any time.
Biscotti degli Innamorati are not just biscuits—they are a gesture of love and sweetness. Whether it’s for a romantic evening or a sweet surprise, these biscuits are sure to bring smiles and joy. Enjoy the process of making them, and share the love with everyone around you!
