Italian Sfrappole Fried Cookies, also known as “Chiacchiere” or “Cenci” in different regions of Italy, are a delightful treat, especially popular during festive seasons like Christmas. These crispy, light cookies are fried to perfection, creating a tempting aroma that fills the kitchen and entices everyone around. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 19 minutes, you’ll soon be indulging in these heavenly delights!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
- 2 eggs 🥚
- 1/4 cup butter, softened 🧈
- 1/2 cup sugar 🍚
- 2 tablespoons rum 🥃
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, for dusting 🍬
- Honey, for drizzling 🍯
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by placing the all-purpose flour on a wooden board, creating a well in the center. |
| 2 | Crack the eggs into the well and lightly beat them with a fork until combined. |
| 3 | Add the softened butter, sugar, rum, and wine into the well, mixing thoroughly with the eggs until well incorporated. |
| 4 | Gradually incorporate the flour into the mixture using your hands, starting from the inside of the well, until a dough forms. |
| 5 | Work the dough into a ball, then cover it and refrigerate for 20 to 25 minutes to allow it to firm up. |
| 6 | After chilling, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. |
| 7 | Using a pastry wheel or a sharp knife, cut the dough into strips approximately 3/4 inch wide and 6 to 7 inches long. |
| 8 | Tie the strips into knots or pin them into bows, creating intricate shapes that will turn into crispy delights when fried. |
| 9 | Pour oil into a large saucepan or deep fryer until it’s about 2 inches deep, then heat it to 375°F (190°C). |
| 10 | Carefully lower a few of the prepared bows into the hot oil using a slotted spoon, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly. |
| 11 | Turn the bows occasionally while frying to ensure they cook evenly on all sides, until they turn a beautiful golden brown color. |
| 12 | Once golden brown, remove the fried bows from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove any excess oil. |
| 13 | Arrange the crispy Sfrappole on a serving platter, then either dust them generously with powdered sugar or drizzle them with honey for added sweetness. |
| 14 | Serve these delightful Italian Fried Cookies as a delightful dessert or snack, perfect for sharing with loved ones and guests alike. Enjoy their crispy texture and sweet flavor! |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 484.7
- Fat: 14.6g
- Saturated Fat: 8.2g
- Cholesterol: 136.2mg
- Sodium: 118.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 73.1g
- Fiber: 1.7g
- Sugar: 25.4g
- Protein: 9.7g
These Italian Sfrappole Fried Cookies are a delightful combination of crispy texture and sweet flavor, making them a perfect addition to any dessert table or festive gathering. Enjoy the process of making these traditional treats and share the joy with your friends and family!
