Capture the essence of an Italian Christmas with a delightful baking tradition that will bring warmth and sweetness to your holiday season. Calcionetti, sweet chestnut-filled pastries, are a beloved treat that combines the rich flavors of chestnuts, chocolate, and spices into a delicious package. These indulgent pastries are not only delicious, but also an enjoyable activity to make with your loved ones during the festive season. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring a taste of Italy to your Christmas table.
Calcionetti Sweet Chestnut Filled Pastries
Ingredients:
For the dough:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup white wine
– Zest of one lemon
– 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
For the filling:
– 1 cup cooked chestnuts, peeled and mashed
– 1/2 cup almond meal
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate, chopped
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– Pinch of nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, sugar, salt, lemon zest, and white wine. Mix the ingredients until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
2. Divide the dough into two equal parts and wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
3. While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, mix together the mashed chestnuts, almond meal, honey, chopped dark chocolate, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Take one portion of the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut out circles of dough.
6. Place a spoonful of the chestnut filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing them together with a fork. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling.
8. Transfer the filled pastries to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of the calcionetti with the beaten egg wash for a shiny finish.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let the calcionetti cool slightly before serving. These pastries can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, sprinkled with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Calcionetti Sweet Chestnut Filled Pastries and experience the joy of baking and sharing a traditional Italian treat with your family and friends this holiday season. Enjoy the magical aroma of chestnuts and spices filling your home as you create these delicious pastries. Bring a touch of Italian charm to your Christmas table with this delightful recipe that celebrates the festive spirit of the season. Buon Natale!
