Gnocchi Dolci Sweet Potato Dumplings

Baking during the holiday season isn’t just about creating delicious treats—it’s about crafting memories, celebrating traditions, and filling your home with warmth and joy. One festive Italian Christmas recipe that perfectly captures this spirit is Gnocchi Dolci, or Sweet Potato Dumplings. These delightful little morsels are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an ideal addition to your holiday baking repertoire. With a soft, pillowy texture and a hint of sweetness, they are sure to become a favorite among your friends and family. Let’s dive into the delightful world of Gnocchi Dolci and learn how to make this scrumptious Italian treat!

Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Zest of 1 orange
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Optional toppings: toasted nuts, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, ricotta cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Gradually add the flour, salt, and orange zest to the sweet potato mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it’s too wet, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a touch of water.
3. Lightly flour a clean surface and turn out the dough. Gently knead it for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make the gnocchi tough.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each piece into a long rope about 1-inch thick. Cut the rope into bite-sized pieces, around 1 inch long. You can leave them as simple dumplings or shape them with a fork for a decorative touch.
5. Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the water, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until the gnocchi float to the surface, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
6. Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked gnocchi from the water and transfer them to a platter or serving dish. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining gnocchi.
7. To serve, sprinkle the warm gnocchi with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar. For an extra touch of indulgence, you can also top them with toasted nuts, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream.
8. Serve the Gnocchi Dolci warm and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors with your loved ones. These sweet potato dumplings are a true masterpiece of holiday baking that will bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Gnocchi Dolci is a wonderful way to infuse your Christmas celebrations with a taste of Italy while adding a unique twist to your dessert spread. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the sweet aroma of these delectable treats fill your home with festive cheer. Happy baking and Buon Natale!