Italian Christmas Desserts
Explore the rich and decadent world of Italian Christmas desserts, from the iconic panettone to honey-glazed struffoli. These traditional holiday treats celebrate Italy’s culinary heritage and festive spirit.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour For dough-based desserts like panettone and pandoro
- 1 cup honey Used in struffoli and torrone
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar For sweetening various desserts
- ½ cup butter Adds richness to cakes like pandoro
- 3 large eggs Essential for binding and structure
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon Aromatic spice used in panforte
- 1 cup almonds Common in torrone and biscotti
- ½ cup candied citrus peel Traditional in panettone
- 1 cup raisins Adds sweetness to panettone
- ½ teaspoon anise extract For authentic pizzelle flavor
Instructions
- Prepare panettone by kneading a yeast-risen dough and allowing it to proof for several hours before baking.
- For pandoro, mix a buttery dough, mold into a star shape, and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Make struffoli by rolling dough into small balls, deep-frying them, and coating them in warm honey glaze.
- For torrone, mix honey, egg whites, and toasted nuts, then press the mixture into a firm nougat shape.
- To prepare panforte, combine nuts, dried fruits, and spices, then bake into a dense, spiced cake.
- Bake pizzelle using a special iron, creating thin, crisp cookies with intricate patterns.
- Pair Italian Christmas desserts with wines like Vin Santo, Moscato d'Asti, or Marsala for a perfect holiday experience.
Notes
These desserts reflect Italy’s festive traditions and regional specialties. Store panettone and pandoro in airtight containers, and serve struffoli fresh to enjoy their crisp texture.
Nutrition
Calories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 30mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 2gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg
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