Intro:
Christmas is a time for sweet indulgences and festive delights. What better way to celebrate the holiday season than with a traditional Apulian dessert that is sure to dazzle your taste buds? Cartellate, a delightful pastry originating from the heart of Italy, is a popular sweet treat that perfectly encapsulates the holiday spirit. These intricately shaped pastries, also known as “rose of Christmas,” are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a favorite among families and friends. Let’s dive into the art of making this delightful confection to add a touch of Italian charm to your holiday table.
Cartellate Recipe Christmas Apulian Dessert
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well to incorporate the dry ingredients evenly.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the white wine, olive oil, and water. Using a fork, gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. After resting, divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion out into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick. Use a fluted pastry cutter or knife to cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long.
5. Take each strip of dough and, using a pastry wheel or knife, make a lengthwise cut down the center, leaving about 1/2 inch at the top uncut. Roll the strip around your little finger, twist the ends through the opening, and press them gently to seal, forming a rosette shape.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pan to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the cartellate in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Once all the cartellate are fried, let them cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar for a beautiful snowy finish.
8. Serve these delightful Christmas treats on a festive platter and watch them disappear in no time. Enjoy the crispy goodness of cartellate with a cup of espresso or dessert wine for a truly authentic Italian experience.
Cartellate are not only delicious but also a fun project to tackle with loved ones during the holiday season. The intricate shapes and crispy texture make them a delightful addition to any Christmas spread. So, channel your inner Italian nonna and let the aroma of freshly fried cartellate fill your home with holiday cheer. Wishing you a joyous and sweet-filled Christmas season!
