Delights from Tuscany: The Art of Making Cantucci

Delights from Tuscany: The Art of Making Cantucci - Cook and Party
Welcome to a culinary journey through Italy. Discover the art of making Cantucci, the delightful almond biscuits that elevate your coffee breaks. Join us in the kitchen as we explore this classic Italian treat.

Ingredients:

• 250 grams plain flour
• 200 grams caster sugar
• 5 grams baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 3 large eggs
• 5 grams vanilla extract
• 200 grams whole almonds (with skins)
• Zest of 1 lemon or orange

Cantucci Recipe - Step by Step:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) to kickstart this delightful baking journey.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, blend 250g plain flour, 200g caster sugar, 5g baking powder, and a pinch of salt. These are the building blocks of our Cantucci.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk 3 large eggs and incorporate 5g of vanilla extract. This is the secret to the Cantucci’s enticing aroma.

Step 4: Create the Dough
Gradually introduce the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Don’t forget the zest of 1 lemon or orange. Stir until a beautiful dough forms.

Step 5: Add Almonds
Embrace 200g of whole almonds into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed. These almonds are what give Cantucci their signature crunch.

Step 6: Shape the Logs
Divide the dough into two equal portions and craft each into a log, roughly 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. It’s a delicious work of art!

Step 7: First Bake
Bake the logs for about 25 minutes until they achieve a light golden hue and become firm to the touch.

Step 8: Slice and Bake Again
Once the logs cool for approximately 10 minutes, use a sharp knife to cut them into diagonal slices, roughly 1/2 inch wide. Lay these slices flat on the baking sheet and return them to the oven for an extra 10-15 minutes, ensuring they turn a beautiful golden brown and maintain their crispiness.

Step 9: Cool and Store
Allow the Cantucci to cool completely. The true magic happens when you store them in an airtight container for a day or two. Flavours harmonize, and they become even more enticing.

Now it’s time to revel in your homemade Cantucci. Pour a cup of coffee or a glass of Vin Santo, and relish the taste of Italy. Italians know how to transform simple ingredients into pure delight. Buon appetito!

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