During the festive season, Italian kitchens come alive with the aroma of traditional Christmas treats. One beloved treat that graces many holiday tables is Pecorelle Di Pasta Reale – delicate Marzipan Lambs that are not only delightful to look at but also a joy to eat. These sweet creations are not only a staple in Italian Christmas baking but also a delightful addition to any holiday spread, capturing the spirit of the season with their charming appearance and delicious taste.
**Pecorelle Di Pasta Reale Marzipan Lambs**
**Ingredients:**
– 300g almond paste
– 100g powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
– 1 egg white
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– Whole cloves for decorating
– Edible food coloring (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Marzipan:** In a mixing bowl, crumble the almond paste to break it up. Add the powdered sugar, egg white, and almond extract. Mix everything together thoroughly until it forms a smooth, pliable dough.
2. **Shape the Lambs:** Divide the marzipan dough into small portions, each about the size of a walnut. Roll each piece into a ball and then shape it into an elongated oval to form the body of the lamb. Use your fingers to make one end slightly narrower to create the head.
3. **Add Details:** With a toothpick or small knife, create texture on the bodies to resemble the wool of the lamb. Press a whole clove into the narrow end of each lamb to create the face – two cloves for the eyes and one for the nose.
4. **Coloring (Optional):** If desired, you can add a drop of edible food coloring to a small portion of marzipan to create colorful scarves or accessories for the lambs. Shape these accents and attach them gently to the lambs with a bit of water.
5. **Let Them Rest:** Place the finished marzipan lambs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow them to air dry for at least a few hours or preferably overnight to firm up.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the marzipan lambs have dried and set, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy effect. Arrange them on a platter as a charming centerpiece or gift them in festive packages as adorable edible gifts.
There you have it – a recipe for Pecorelle Di Pasta Reale Marzipan Lambs that will elevate your holiday baking and add a touch of whimsy to your Christmas celebrations. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful treats with your loved ones to create lasting memories of joy and sweetness this holiday season.
