Hazelnut Lady’s Kisses (Baci di Dama alle Nocciole)
Category: Desserts
Servings: 22 pieces
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 250g |
| Hazelnut flour | 120g |
| Gianduia chocolate | 50g |
| Eggs | 48g |
| Butter (softened) | 190g |
| Granulated sugar | 120g |
| Fine salt | 1 pinch |
Nutritional Information (Per Piece)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~110 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~9g |
| Protein | ~2g |
| Fat | ~8g |
| Fiber | ~1g |
| Sugar | ~5g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Butter Mixture
- Begin by placing the softened butter, cut into small cubes, in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
- Add the granulated sugar and mix on low speed until the two ingredients are well combined.
Step 2: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
- Sprinkle in the pinch of salt and mix briefly to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
- Sift the all-purpose flour directly into the bowl with the butter mixture.
- Add the hazelnut flour, also sifting it to prevent lumps, and mix on low speed until a uniform dough begins to form.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Using your hands or a bench scraper, gently bring the dough together into a cohesive ball, taking care not to overwork it to avoid warming the butter.
- Shape the dough into a compact disk and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour.
Step 4: Form the Cookies
- Once the dough has chilled, unwrap it and cut it into small portions. Roll each portion between your hands to form small, even balls, about the size of a marble.
- Arrange the balls on a tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring they have enough space to prevent sticking. Place the tray in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to allow the dough to firm up.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C). Transfer the chilled cookie balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15–18 minutes, or until the cookies are firm but not browned. Remove the tray from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 6: Assemble the Lady’s Kisses
- While the cookies are cooling, melt the gianduia chocolate gently over a double boiler or in the microwave using short bursts, stirring frequently to ensure smoothness.
- Take one cookie and spread a small amount of melted chocolate on its flat side. Gently press another cookie onto the chocolate to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies.
Step 7: Set and Serve
- Allow the assembled cookies to rest until the chocolate has completely set, either at room temperature or in a cool spot.
- Serve these delightful Hazelnut Lady’s Kisses with coffee, tea, or as a sweet treat for special occasions.
Tips for Perfect Baci di Dama:
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy blending but not overly soft.
- Chilling the dough is crucial to maintaining the cookies’ shape during baking.
- Use high-quality gianduia chocolate for the best flavor.
Enjoy these elegant, nutty delights that are sure to impress! For more delicious recipes, visit Love With Recipes.
