Grana Padano Cantucci with Almonds and Pistachios

Grana Padano and Mixed Nut Cantucci

Category: Appetizers
Servings: 24

Grana Padano, an iconic Italian cheese, adds a rich, savory twist to these crunchy cantucci cookies, perfect for a sophisticated appetizer. Paired with roasted almonds and pistachios, these cookies provide a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making them an ideal accompaniment to your favorite wines or an excellent snack. Here’s how you can bring this classic Italian treat to life with a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough:
   Begin by placing the flour, grated Grana Padano cheese, and extra virgin olive oil in a large mixing bowl. Using your hands, mix these ingredients until they are well incorporated. The olive oil will help bind the ingredients together, creating a slightly crumbly yet manageable dough.

2. Add egg whites:
   Incorporate the egg whites into the mixture. This will help the dough come together and provide the cantucci with a light, airy texture once baked. Continue to knead until everything is evenly combined.

3. Incorporate the nuts:
   Roughly chop the almonds and pistachios, then gently fold them into the dough. These will add a wonderful crunch and earthy flavor to the cantucci, complementing the richness of the cheese.

4. Shape the dough:
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Shape the mixture into a log about 4 cm wide. The length can vary, but it’s important to keep the width consistent for even baking.

5. Bake the first time:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the shaped dough onto the baking sheet, flatten it slightly with your hands, and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the log is golden and firm to the touch.

6. Cool and slice:
   Once the log is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Once slightly cooled, slice it into individual cantucci pieces, about 1-1.5 cm thick, using a sharp knife. Arrange these slices back onto the baking sheet.

7. Bake the second time:
   Return the slices to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cantucci are crisp and golden. This second bake will give them that signature crunch that makes cantucci so beloved.

8. Cool and serve:
   Allow the cantucci to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. These crunchy delights are perfect with a glass of Vin Santo or your favorite dessert wine. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.

Enjoy these Grana Padano cantucci with a variety of nuts as a perfect appetizer or snack, and delight in the rich, savory flavors combined with the satisfying crunch. They are simple to make yet pack a sophisticated punch, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a treat any time of the day.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

These cantucci bring a taste of Italy right to your kitchen with their simple yet complex flavors. Their versatility makes them perfect for holiday spreads or as an everyday treat for your guests. Whether you dip them in coffee or enjoy them as-is, they are bound to be a hit at your next gathering.