Befanini Cookies: A Traditional Italian Treat for Epiphany
Befanini are delightful Italian cookies that are traditionally baked to celebrate the Epiphany. These biscuits are fragrant with vanilla and lemon zest, and their crisp texture makes them a favorite among both children and adults. The cookies are not only perfect for marking the special day but also make for a fun and festive treat during the winter months.
This recipe for Befanini yields approximately 45 cookies and is sure to bring warmth and sweetness to your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing them for the Epiphany or simply indulging in a delicious homemade treat, these cookies will charm everyone who tastes them.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 125g |
| Baking powder | 8g |
| Sugar | 100g |
| Vanilla bean | 1 |
| Egg | 1 |
| Rum | 10g |
| Lemon zest | 1 |
| All-purpose flour (00) | 250g |
| Egg white | 1 |
| Colored sprinkles | q.b. |
Nutritional Information (per cookie)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~80 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~4g |
| Saturated Fat | ~2.5g |
| Carbohydrates | ~10g |
| Sugars | ~4g |
| Protein | ~1g |
| Fiber | ~0g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough:
- Start by placing the flour and cold butter (cut into small cubes) into a food processor. Pulse the ingredients until the mixture forms a sandy texture, resembling breadcrumbs.
- Add the sugar, baking powder, vanilla bean seeds, grated lemon zest, egg, and rum into the food processor. Pulse again until all the ingredients are well incorporated and form a dough.
-
Shape the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a work surface and knead it briefly with your hands to bring it all together into a smooth ball. Press the dough into a disc shape, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This step helps to firm up the dough and makes it easier to roll out.
-
Roll and Cut the Cookies:
- Once the dough is chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 4 mm. Using cookie cutters (you can choose traditional shapes or any festive designs), cut out the cookies.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave a little space between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking.
-
Prepare for Baking:
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg white until it becomes slightly frothy. Brush the egg white lightly over the top of each cookie to help the colorful sprinkles stick.
- Sprinkle the cookies with colorful sprinkles or sugar decorations to add a festive touch.
-
Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) in static mode. Bake the cookies for 7-8 minutes, but keep a close eye on them to ensure they don’t brown too much. The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges.
- Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooled, your Befanini cookies are ready to be enjoyed. These treats are perfect for serving at gatherings or as a snack during the Epiphany celebrations.
Tips for Perfect Befanini Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the refrigeration step! It makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Decorative Sprinkles: While traditional Befanini are often decorated with colorful sprinkles, you can also try adding a dusting of powdered sugar or icing to make them even more festive.
- Flavor Variations: For a twist on the classic, consider adding a little ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced flavor, especially during the colder months.
Why You’ll Love These Befanini Cookies
These Italian cookies are simple to make yet bursting with flavor. Their light texture, combined with the freshness of lemon zest and the aromatic touch of vanilla and rum, makes them irresistible. Not to mention, their colorful decorations bring a sense of fun to any occasion. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or serve them at a festive gathering, these Befanini cookies are bound to be a hit.
So, get into the kitchen and bake these delightful cookies—perfect for the Epiphany or whenever you’re in the mood for a sweet, homemade treat. Buona Befana!
This recipe makes 45 delicious cookies and will fill your home with the wonderful aroma of freshly baked Italian pastries. It’s an easy yet charming way to celebrate tradition while enjoying the simple pleasures of baking with loved ones.
