Canestrelli Cookies

Canestrelli Cookies

Canestrelli Cookies

By Master Chef Gianluca Deiana Abis

History of Canestrelli Cookies

Canestrelli are traditional Italian cookies from the Piedmont region, specifically from the area around Turin, although they are popular throughout northern Italy. These delicate, buttery cookies have a crumbly texture and a distinctive flower-like shape, often dusted with powdered sugar. They are commonly made during holidays, particularly at Christmas and Easter, but they are also enjoyed as an everyday treat with a cup of coffee or tea.

The name "canestrelli" comes from the Italian word canestro, meaning basket, as the cookies' shape resembles the woven pattern of a basket. These cookies are typically made using a simple dough of butter, egg yolks, sugar, and flour, with some variations including a hint of lemon zest or a touch of vanilla. Their rich, shortbread-like texture and melt-in-your-mouth flavor make them a favorite across Italy.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 3 large egg yolks

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)

• A pinch of salt

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Preparation Steps

1. Make the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl or food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. If you are adding lemon zest or vanilla extract, include them at this point.

• Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs (or pulse in a food processor).

• Add the egg yolks to the mixture and gently mix until the dough starts to come together. If the dough is too dry, add a little cold water, a teaspoon at a time, until it forms a smooth dough.

2. Chill the Dough:

• Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up. Chilling the dough makes it easier to roll out and helps the cookies retain their shape during baking.

3. Shape the Cookies:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.

• Using a flower-shaped cookie cutter (or any shape you prefer), cut the dough into individual cookies. Traditionally, canestrelli are made with a flower-shaped cutter, but you can use any design that appeals to you.

• To create the characteristic hole in the center, you can use a small round cutter or the back of a piping tip to press into the center of each cookie.

4. Bake the Cookies:

• Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cookies are firm to the touch. Be careful not to overbake them, as they should remain delicate and crumbly.

• Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

5. Dust with Powdered Sugar:

• Once the cookies have cooled completely, dust them generously with powdered sugar for a classic finishing touch.

Chef Tips:

1. Cold Butter:Using cold butter is key to achieving the cookies' delicate, crumbly texture. The cold butter helps create a "short" dough, which melts in your mouth.

2. Chilling the Dough:Chilling the dough is essential for shaping and ensuring the cookies hold their form during baking. If the dough becomes too soft to handle, refrigerate it for an additional 10-15 minutes.

3. Flavor Variations:While traditional canestrelli are simple, you can add a small amount of lemon zest or vanilla extract for extra flavor. You can also experiment by adding a touch of almond extract for a subtle nutty flavor.

4. Shape and Size:The traditional flower shape is quintessential, but don’t hesitate to use other shapes like circles or stars. Just make sure to create the signature hole in the middle, which is part of the charm of these cookies.

5. Storage:Canestrelli cookies keep well in an airtight container for up to a week. They are perfect for preparing ahead of time and serving as a snack or dessert for guests.

Wine Pairing:

1. Moscato d'Asti (Piedmont):The sweet, effervescent nature of Moscato d'Asti is a wonderful match for the buttery richness of the canestrelli. The wine’s light fizz and refreshing sweetness complement the delicate texture of the cookies.

2. Vin Santo (Tuscany):Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine from Tuscany, pairs beautifully with canestrelli. Its rich, raisin-like flavors and smooth finish create a perfect balance with the crumbly, buttery texture of the cookies.

3. Prosecco (DOC or DOCG):If you prefer something sparkling, Prosecco is an excellent choice. The crispness and light bubbles of this Italian sparkling wine cleanse the palate between bites, making it a perfect match for the cookies.

Enjoy your Canestrelli Cookies!

These delicate, buttery cookies are a true Italian classic, perfect for any occasion. Whether served with coffee, tea, or a glass of wine, Canestrelli offer a delicious taste of Ligurian tradition. Buon Appetito!