Italian leaf cookies Recipe – Delightful Dish

Italian Leaf Cookies, also known as “Frutta di Bosco” or “Italian Bow Tie Cookies,” are delightful treats that are perfect for any occasion. These cookies are not only visually appealing but also deliciously addictive. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making these delectable cookies right in your own kitchen.

What are Italian Leaf Cookies?

Italian Leaf Cookies are delicate, fried pastries shaped like leaves or bows. They are traditionally made with a sweet, crispy dough and often dusted with powdered sugar. These cookies are popular during the holidays but are enjoyed year-round for their light, flaky texture and delightful taste.

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment:

1. Mixing bowls
2. Rolling pin
3. Knife or pastry cutter
4. Deep fryer or large, deep skillet
5. Slotted spoon
6. Paper towels
7. Wire rack

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth, about 5 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each part into a thin rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.
4. Using a knife or pastry cutter, cut the dough into strips, about 1 inch wide and 5 inches long.
5. To shape the cookies, make a small slit lengthwise down the center of each strip. Then, pull one end of the strip through the slit to form a bow or leaf shape.
6. In a deep fryer or large, deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).
7. Carefully place the cookies in the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
8. Using a slotted spoon, remove the cookies from the oil and drain on paper towels.
9. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze.
10. Dip each cookie in the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off, then place on a wire rack to set.

What to Serve with Italian Leaf Cookies:

Italian Leaf Cookies are perfect on their own, but they can also be served with a cup of espresso or a glass of sweet wine for a truly indulgent treat. They make a lovely addition to any dessert platter and are sure to impress your guests.

What Do Italian Leaf Cookies Taste Like?

Italian Leaf Cookies are light, crispy, and slightly sweet. The dough is fried to perfection, giving the cookies a golden brown color and a delicate crunch. The glaze adds a touch of sweetness and helps to keep the cookies moist.

How Healthy is This Recipe?

While Italian Leaf Cookies are delicious, they are not the healthiest option. They are fried, which adds extra calories and fat. However, you can make them a bit healthier by using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour and baking them instead of frying. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the glaze or skip it altogether for a less sweet treat.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Italian Leaf Cookies:

• Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying the cookies to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
• Don’t overcrowd the frying pan or deep fryer. Fry the cookies in batches to prevent them from sticking together.
• For a more traditional flavor, you can add a tablespoon of anise liqueur or lemon zest to the dough.
• Allow the cookies to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and becoming too thin.

Recipe Variations:

• Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of glazing the cookies, drizzle them with melted chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
• Almond Flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the dough for a delicious almond flavor.
• Jam-Filled: Cut a slit down the center of each cookie before frying and fill with your favorite jam or preserves after frying.

FAQs about Italian Leaf Cookies:

Can I make Italian Leaf Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze the cookies after frying and glazing them for up to one month. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Can I bake Italian Leaf Cookies instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. They won’t be as crispy as fried cookies, but they will still be delicious.

Can I use a different type of glaze?
Yes, you can use a chocolate glaze, lemon glaze, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar instead of the vanilla glaze.

Can I make Italian Leaf Cookies without eggs?
Yes, you can make a vegan version of Italian Leaf Cookies by using a flax egg or commercial egg replacer instead of eggs.

How long do Italian Leaf Cookies stay fresh?
Italian Leaf Cookies will stay fresh for up to one week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Conclusion:

Italian Leaf Cookies are a delightful treat that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet ending to a meal, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate the taste of Italy right in your own kitchen.