Are you craving a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than Baci di Dama, which translates to "lady's kisses" in Italian. These charming hazelnut cookies are a perfect blend of crunchy and chewy, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and nutty flavor. They're the ideal homemade cooking project, perfect for a quick dessert or an impressive addition to your next gathering. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this easy recipe will guide you through creating these irresistible Italian delicacies. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this classic recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and finely ground
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup dark chocolate, finely chopped
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Hazelnuts
Start by toasting the hazelnuts. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool completely, then finely grind them using a food processor or blender. This step enhances the nutty flavor and creates a delightful texture.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the ground hazelnuts, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, contributing to a consistent cookie texture.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. This step is crucial for creating a smooth and creamy cookie dough.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough cookies.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into small balls (about ¾ inch in diameter). Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet.
Step 7: Pair the Cookies
Once cooled, take two cookies and gently press a small amount of melted dark chocolate between them. This step creates the signature "kiss" shape and adds a delightful chocolatey flavor.
Tips for the Best Baci di Dama:
- Toasting the hazelnuts: This crucial step intensifies the hazelnut flavor and adds a lovely aroma to your cookies.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Chill the dough: For even better results, chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping and baking. This helps prevent spreading.
- Use high-quality chocolate: The best chocolate will enhance the overall flavor of the cookies.
Variations:
- Milk chocolate: Substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter treat.
- White chocolate: Use white chocolate for a unique and delicious twist.
- Add spices: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, comforting flavor.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: 100-120 Fat: 6-8g Sugar: 7-9g Protein: 2-3g
This Baci di Dama recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and easy healthy meals can be. Enjoy these delightful Italian treats! They're a delicious way to impress your guests or simply indulge in a sweet treat anytime. The simple recipe makes it a great option for beginner bakers while still offering a sophisticated and satisfying result. Making these delightful cookies at home is a wonderful way to enjoy homemade cooking and share the joy with others.