Bicchierini di Cassata: A Delightful Italian Dessert in a Glass
Category: Desserts
Serves: 6
Preparation Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Cassata is a traditional Sicilian dessert that is beloved for its rich flavors and colorful presentation. This “Bicchierini di Cassata” recipe takes the essence of the classic dessert and transforms it into a charming, individual-sized treat. The base consists of a delicate, soft biscuit-like cake, while the filling features a creamy ricotta and sweetened condensed milk mixture. To add that classic touch, chopped candied fruit and dark chocolate chips complete the dessert, making each bite a delicious journey through Italian flavors.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 2 |
| All-purpose flour (00 flour) | 40g |
| Sugar | 60g |
| Honey | 5g |
| Vanilla bean (split in half) | ½ |
| Ricotta cheese | 300g |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 100g |
| Dark chocolate chips | 50g |
| Candied fruit (mixed) | As needed (q.b.) |
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Biscuit Base
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a baking tray (32 cm in length) by lining it with parchment paper.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), whisk the eggs at room temperature. Start by adding honey and gradually pour in the sugar, mixing until you get a smooth, fluffy texture. This process will take about 10 minutes.
- Once the egg mixture is light and airy, sift the flour and fold it gently into the egg mixture. Be sure to incorporate the flour without deflating the batter. Stir carefully until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until the biscuit is golden and firm to the touch. Remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before handling.
Step 2: Preparing the Ricotta Filling
- While the biscuit base is baking, strain the ricotta through a fine sieve to make it extra smooth and creamy.
- Mix the strained ricotta with the sweetened condensed milk until well combined. Set the filling aside.
Step 3: Assembling the Biscuit Discs
- Once the biscuit has cooled, cut out small discs (approximately 5 cm in diameter) using a round cutter. You will need one disc per serving.
- You’ll have some leftover biscuit—this can be used for decoration or added as an extra layer in your dessert.
Step 4: Assembling the Cassata Cups
- Take individual serving glasses or small cups and place a biscuit disc at the bottom of each. This will serve as the base of your dessert.
- Using a piping bag, pipe a layer of the ricotta and condensed milk mixture on top of the biscuit base, filling the cup nearly to the top.
- Chop the candied fruits into small pieces and carefully add them to each cup using tweezers. The candied fruit adds both color and a sweet, chewy texture to the dish.
- Once the candied fruits are placed, pipe another layer of the ricotta mixture on top, covering the fruits completely.
- Sprinkle dark chocolate chips over the top of the dessert for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serving
- After assembling, chill the dessert in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing and indulgent treat. Enjoy each spoonful of the delightful combination of biscuit, creamy ricotta, sweetened condensed milk, and candied fruit!
Notes:
- If you prefer a more decadent version, consider adding more chocolate chips or a drizzle of dark chocolate on top for extra richness.
- To ensure a smooth texture, you can blend the ricotta and condensed milk mixture in a food processor if needed.
- Feel free to use your favorite combination of candied fruits, such as orange peel, cherries, or melon, to personalize this dessert.
Bicchierini di Cassata is a perfect dessert for any occasion. Its vibrant layers and sweet, creamy filling will delight your guests and transport them to the heart of Sicily.
