Pignolata Glassata – A Heavenly Sicilian Pastry Delight
If you’re craving a traditional Italian dessert that’s both rich in flavor and history, look no further than Pignolata Glassata. This Sicilian delicacy is a true testament to the rich culinary heritage of the island, featuring crunchy, fried dough bites covered in two types of glazes: a zesty lemon glaze and a decadent dark chocolate glaze. Perfect for a festive occasion or an indulgent treat, this dessert combines the perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and smoothness.
Serving Size: 4
Category: Desserts
Preparation Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 1125g |
| All-purpose flour | 300g |
| Butter | 30g |
| Granulated sugar | 20g |
| Grappa | 20g |
| Lemon zest | 1 lemon |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Egg whites | 37g |
| Lemon juice | 15g |
| Powdered sugar | 200g |
| Dark chocolate | 200g |
| Butter | 10g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
To start making your Pignolata Glassata, place the sifted flour into a mixing bowl. Add the soft butter, cut into small cubes, and the granulated sugar. To infuse the dough with a fragrant citrus flavor, grate the zest of one untreated lemon and add it to the mixture.
Next, crack two whole eggs and one yolk into the bowl (reserve the remaining egg white for the glaze). Mix all of the ingredients together, kneading the dough with your hands until it forms a dense and smooth texture. The dough should be firm enough to hold its shape. Shape the dough into a compact ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes to relax and settle.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has rested, divide it into small portions. Roll each portion into thin ropes (about 1 cm thick). Use a sharp knife to cut these ropes into small, bite-sized pieces—roughly 14-15 pieces from each rope. Set them aside on a floured surface, ready for frying.
Step 3: Fry the Dough Bites
In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to about 170°C (340°F). It’s essential to maintain this temperature for optimal frying results, so using a food thermometer is highly recommended. Carefully drop a few dough pieces at a time into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil, allowing excess oil to drain. Place the fried pieces on paper towels to absorb any remaining oil.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Glaze
While the dough pieces are cooling, prepare the lemon glaze. Take the reserved egg whites and place them in a mixing bowl. Using a hand whisk, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar, a little at a time, continuing to whisk until the mixture becomes thick and glossy. This will form the base for the lemon glaze. Once the glaze is ready, drizzle or dip half of the fried dough bites in the lemon glaze and set them aside to let the glaze set.
Step 5: Make the Chocolate Glaze
Now, for the indulgent chocolate glaze, place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl and melt it gently using a double boiler (a pot of simmering water beneath the bowl). Add the butter to the chocolate as it melts, stirring until smooth and well combined. Once melted, pour the chocolate glaze over the remaining half of the fried dough bites. Ensure each piece is generously coated with the glossy chocolate.
Step 6: Assemble the Pignolata
Once both glazes have set, it’s time to assemble your Pignolata Glassata. Arrange the glazed dough pieces in a mound, forming a beautiful pile of golden, glossy delights. The combination of the lemony tang and the smooth dark chocolate will provide an irresistible contrast that’s sure to impress anyone who gets a taste.
Serving Suggestions
Your Pignolata Glassata is now ready to be served. It’s the perfect dessert for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or simply to treat yourself to an unforgettable Italian-inspired sweet. The crunchy dough pieces, coated in the luscious lemon and chocolate glazes, will melt in your mouth with each bite. Pair it with a cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine, and you’ve got a match made in culinary heaven.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 75mg |
| Sodium | 100mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 18g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Vitamin A | 8% |
| Vitamin C | 5% |
| Calcium | 4% |
| Iron | 6% |
Final Notes
The Pignolata Glassata is a dessert that truly embodies the spirit of Italian confectionery. The process of making it might take some time, but the end result is well worth the effort. This dessert doesn’t just taste amazing—it’s also visually striking, with the contrasting glazes creating an inviting and delicious display. Whether for a holiday feast or an intimate family gathering, this Sicilian dessert is guaranteed to be a hit.
Enjoy making and sharing this delectable treat with your loved ones—because when it comes to indulgence, Pignolata Glassata is a slice of heaven on a plate!
