Italian Bowtie Pastry (Wanda’s Recipe)
Introduction
Indulging in the delightful world of desserts is an experience that transcends mere taste; it becomes a cherished moment shared with family and friends. The Italian Bowtie Pastry, affectionately known as “Wanda’s,” embodies this sentiment with its tender, flaky texture and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for special occasions or a casual afternoon treat, these pastries are sure to impress with their unique shape and delectable flavor.
With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of around 30 minutes, you can enjoy these light, crispy delights in no time. This recipe yields approximately 24 pastries, making it an ideal option for gatherings or as a sweet snack to brighten your day. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and make some delicious Italian Bowtie Pastries!
Recipe Overview
| Recipe Name | Italian Bowtie Pastry (Wanda’s) |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | Approximately 24 pastries |
| Category | Dessert |
| Keywords | Cookie & Brownie, European, Healthy, < 60 Mins, Deep Fried |
Ingredients
For this charming Italian dessert, you will need the following ingredients, each measured with care to ensure perfect results:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/4 cups |
| White sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Butter (unsalted) | 2 tablespoons |
| Sherry wine | 3 tablespoons |
| Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting) | to taste |
Nutritional Information
Each pastry is not only delicious but also a lighter option, making them a suitable treat for those mindful of their dietary choices:
| Nutritional Component | Amount Per Pastry |
|---|---|
| Calories | 66.5 |
| Total Fat | 1.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 11.4 mg |
| Sodium | 16.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Sugars | 1.2 g |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create your Italian Bowtie Pastries, ensuring every bite is filled with warmth and nostalgia:
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Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of white sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended, creating a light and airy mixture that forms the base of your pastry.
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Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, crack open the large egg and add in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter (softened at room temperature) and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to blend these ingredients until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring that the butter is fully incorporated.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients, and pour in the egg mixture. Gradually mix the ingredients together using a spatula or your hands until a stiff dough begins to form. The dough should be somewhat crumbly at first but will come together as you work it.
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Incorporate Sherry Wine: At this stage, you will want to add 3 tablespoons of sherry wine, one tablespoon at a time, to the dough. Continue mixing until the dough becomes smooth and pliable, allowing the sherry to enhance the flavor and texture of your pastries. This step is crucial as it provides that unique richness associated with traditional Italian pastries.
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Chill the Dough: Once the dough is well combined, cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and place it in the refrigerator for about 2 hours. Chilling the dough is essential as it allows the gluten to relax, resulting in tender pastries that are easy to roll out later.
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Roll Out the Dough: After the chilling period, remove the dough from the refrigerator and place it on a floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Take your time to achieve an even thickness, as this will ensure that the pastries fry uniformly.
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Cut and Shape the Pastries: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the rolled dough into narrow strips. Then, take each strip and twist it into loose knots, creating the iconic bowtie shape. Make sure to pinch the ends together to secure the shape, ensuring that they won’t unravel during frying.
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Prepare for Frying: In a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot, pour in 1 1/2 to 2 inches of oil. Heat the oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring that it is hot enough to fry the pastries quickly, resulting in a crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil.
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Fry the Pastries: Carefully add the shaped bowtie pastries to the hot oil in small batches, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about 2 minutes or until they puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as frying times may vary slightly based on your equipment.
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Drain and Dust: Once fried, use a slotted spoon to transfer the pastries to a plate lined with paper towels or brown bags to absorb any excess oil. While they are still warm, generously dust them with confectioners’ sugar for that sweet finishing touch that brings the whole dish together.
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Serve and Enjoy: Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the fryer, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for a few days. Perfect for sharing at gatherings, these Italian Bowtie Pastries are bound to become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire.
Conclusion
With their light and airy texture, the Italian Bowtie Pastries, or “Wanda’s,” make for a delightful treat that combines the joy of cooking with the pleasure of sharing. This simple yet satisfying recipe invites you to create a moment of joy and togetherness, one delicious pastry at a time. Whether served at a festive occasion or as a sweet afternoon snack, these pastries will surely leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and your heart. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this delightful culinary adventure that is bound to sweeten your day.
