17 Italian Fig Cookies Recipe Giada Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 16, 2024
Italian fig cookies, also known as "cuccidati" or "cuccidati siciliani," are a traditional holiday treat originating from Sicily, Italy. These delicious cookies are typically made during Christmas and Easter, but can be enjoyed year-round. With a flaky pastry crust and a sweet and nutty fig filling, these cookies are a must-try for any dessert lover. In this article, we will be sharing an authentic Italian fig cookies recipe from the renowned chef Giada De Laurentiis. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delectable dessert!
Fresh Figs with Mascarpone, Mint and Italian Honey
Main Ingredients: Mascarpone Cheese, Black Mission Figs, Fresh Mint
Looking for a fresh and light way to enjoy Beer Can Chicken? Try this recipe for Fresh Figs with Mascarpone, Mint and Italian Honey. It's a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors that will elevate your chicken to a whole new level.
Figs are a staple in Italian cuisine, and for good reason. They add a unique sweetness and texture to any dish. In this recipe, we pair fresh figs with creamy mascarpone cheese, fragrant mint and drizzle it all with rich Italian honey. The result is a delicious and elegant side dish that will impress your guests.
For a taste of traditional Italian holiday baking, try these classic Italian Fig Cookies (Cuccidati). These delicate cookies are filled with a sweet fig and nut filling and topped with a simple glaze. They are a must-have on any holiday cookie tray.
The key to making these cookies is using high-quality figs. Look for dried figs that are plump and soft, with a deep, rich color. They should have a sweet aroma and not be too dry. You can also use fresh figs if they are in season.
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Cucciddati | Italian Christmas Cookies
Main Ingredients: Figs, Raisins, Unsalted Butter, Powdered Sugar, Orange
Christmas in Italy wouldn't be complete without a plate of Cucciddati, or Italian Christmas Cookies. These festive treats are filled with a delicious fig and nut mixture and topped with a decadent chocolate glaze. They are the perfect addition to any holiday celebration.
The name Cucciddati comes from the Sicilian word "cucciiddatu," which means "little bundle." These cookies are traditionally made in the shape of a bundle, but you can also shape them into a crescent or any other shape you desire.
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Fig Tart
Main Ingredients: Flour, Sugar, Butter, Egg Yolk, Cold Water, Heavy
For a showstopping dessert that is surprisingly easy to make, try this Fig Tart. The sweet and juicy figs are nestled in a flaky pastry crust and topped with a mascarpone cream. It's a perfect ending to any meal.
This tart can be made with fresh or dried figs, depending on what is available. If using fresh figs, make sure to slice them thinly and evenly so they cook through. If using dried figs, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before using to soften them.
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Pistachio, Vanilla and Chocolate Crunch Semifreddo
Main Ingredients: 70 Dark Chocolate, Large Eggs, Sugar, Vanilla Bean
Add a touch of Italian flair to your Beer Can Chicken with this Pistachio, Vanilla and Chocolate Crunch Semifreddo. Semifreddo is a frozen dessert that is similar to ice cream, but lighter and creamier. It's the perfect way to end a meal on a hot summer day.
This recipe combines the traditional flavors of pistachio, vanilla, and chocolate to create a delicious and refreshing dessert. The crunch comes from an added layer of chopped pistachios and chocolate between the layers of semifreddo. It adds a nice texture and a touch of decadence.
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Italian Fig Cookies {Cucidati}
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Light Brown Sugar
These Italian Fig Cookies, also known as Cucidati, are a must-have on any holiday cookie tray. The tender cookie dough is filled with a sweet fig and nut filling and topped with a simple glaze. They are a labor of love, but well worth the effort.
These cookies are traditionally made during the Christmas season, but they are delicious any time of year. They also make a great gift for friends and family. Just be sure to make a double batch, as they tend to disappear quickly.
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Fig-Prosciutto Pizza with Arugula
Main Ingredients: Pizza Crust, Active Dry Yeast, All Purpose Flour
For a unique twist on pizza, try this Fig-Prosciutto Pizza with Arugula. The combination of sweet figs, salty prosciutto, and peppery arugula creates a flavor explosion in every bite. It's a perfect appetizer or light meal.
This pizza is made with a homemade pizza dough, but you can also use a pre-made crust for convenience. The figs are sliced thinly and arranged on top of the pizza, along with the prosciutto and arugula. After baking, the pizza is finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.
Main Ingredients: Balsamic Vinegar, Honey, Water, Figs, Garlic, Olive
This Balsamic Fig Glazed Pork is a delicious and elegant way to enjoy Beer Can Chicken. The sweet and tangy fig glaze adds a rich flavor to the tender pork, and the blistered cherry tomatoes provide a burst of freshness. It's a perfect dish for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
The key to this recipe is using high-quality balsamic vinegar. Look for one that is aged at least 10 years for a richer and more complex flavor. You can also use balsamic glaze if you have it on hand.
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Risotto with Figs and Prosecco-Risotto con Fichi e...
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Onion, Arborio Rice, Prosecco
This Risotto with Figs and Prosecco is a delicious and unique way to enjoy Beer Can Chicken. The creamy risotto is infused with the flavors of figs and prosecco, creating a luxurious and flavorful dish. It's a perfect side for any meal.
Making risotto may seem intimidating, but it's actually quite simple. The key is to stir constantly and add the broth gradually, allowing the rice to absorb it before adding more. This creates a creamy and rich texture.
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Easy Fig Tiramisu In a Cup
Main Ingredients: Figs, Mascarpone, Eggs, Sugar, Espresso, Marsala
If you love tiramisu, you have to try this Easy Fig Tiramisu in a Cup. It's a fun and modern twist on the classic Italian dessert. The figs add a sweet and fruity flavor, while the espresso and marsala wine provide a rich depth of flavor.
This recipe is made in individual cups, making it perfect for entertaining. It also eliminates the need for slicing and serving a large tiramisu, making it less messy and more convenient. Plus, it looks adorable and elegant in the cups.
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Fig, Prosciutto, and Gruyère Panini
Main Ingredients: Figs, Prosciutto, Gruyere Cheese, Spinach, Bread, Olive
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this Fig, Prosciutto, and Gruyère Panini. The combination of sweet figs, salty prosciutto, and nutty gruyère cheese creates a perfectly balanced and delicious sandwich. It's a great lunch option or a quick and easy dinner.
This panini can be made with any type of bread, but a crusty Italian bread or sourdough works best. You can also use a panini press or a grill pan for the perfect crispy exterior and melty cheese.
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Fig & Ricotta Bruschetta
Main Ingredients: French Baguette, Ricotta Cheese, Fig, Olive Oil
For a simple and delicious appetizer, try this Fig & Ricotta Bruschetta. The creamy ricotta is topped with sweet figs and finished with a drizzle of honey and balsamic glaze. It's a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
This bruschetta can be made with any type of bread, but a crusty Italian bread works best. You can also grill the bread for a smoky flavor, or simply toast it in the oven. This dish is best served immediately, so the bread stays crispy.
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Fresh Fig Gorgonzola Bruschetta
Main Ingredients: Pugliese Bread, Gorgonzola Cheese, Figs, Lemon Thyme
This Fresh Fig Gorgonzola Bruschetta is a perfect appetizer for a summer gathering. The sweet figs and tangy gorgonzola cheese create a delicious contrast of flavors. It's a simple and elegant dish that will impress your guests.
For an extra touch of flavor, you can also add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or honey on top of the figs. This bruschetta can also be made on a grill for a smoky flavor. Just make sure to keep an eye on it, as the bread can burn quickly.
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Fig and Prosciutto Bruschetta
Main Ingredients: Sourdough Bread, Olive Oil, Garlic Clove, Mozzarella
This Fig and Prosciutto Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that is always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of sweet figs and salty prosciutto creates a perfect balance of flavors. It's a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion.
This bruschetta can be made with any type of bread, but a crusty Italian bread or baguette works best. You can also add a touch of balsamic glaze or honey on top for an extra pop of flavor. Serve it as a starter or as part of a larger meal.
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4-Cheese, Fig, and Prosciutto Pizza
Main Ingredients: Pizza Crust, Dried Figs, Apple Juice, Figs, Gruyere
If you're a fan of decadent and indulgent pizzas, you have to try this 4-Cheese, Fig, and Prosciutto Pizza. The combination of four different cheeses, sweet figs, and salty prosciutto creates a flavor explosion in every bite. It's a perfect option for a pizza night at home.
This pizza is best made with a homemade pizza dough, but you can also use a pre-made crust for convenience. The key to this pizza is using high-quality cheeses, such as gorgonzola, fontina, mozzarella, and parmesan. You can also add additional toppings, such as caramelized onions or balsamic glaze, if desired.
For a delicious and unique dessert, try this Italian Ricotta Cheesecake. This light and creamy cheesecake is made with ricotta cheese, giving it a slightly different texture and flavor than traditional cheesecake. It's a perfect ending to any Italian-inspired meal.
This cheesecake is best made a day in advance to allow it to set properly. You can also top it with fresh figs or a fig compote for an extra touch of sweetness. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for a truly indulgent experience.
These Italian Thumbprint Cookies are a classic holiday treat that is loved by all. The tender cookie dough is filled with a sweet fig and nut filling and topped with a simple glaze. They are a perfect addition to any cookie tray.
The key to making these cookies is using high-quality figs and nuts. You can also add a touch of cinnamon or orange zest to the filling for an extra burst of flavor. These cookies are best served with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy and comforting treat.
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Cuccidati (Italian Fig Cookies)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Granulated Sugar, Baking Powder
Cuccidati, or Italian Fig Cookies, are a staple in Italian households during the holidays. These tender cookies are filled with a sweet fig and nut filling and topped with a simple glaze. They are a labor of love, but well worth the effort.
The key to making these cookies is to make sure the dough is chilled before rolling it out. This will make it easier to work with and prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking. These cookies are also best made a day in advance, as the flavors will develop and the cookies will become even more tender.
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Cuccidati (Italian Fig Cookies)
Main Ingredients: 00 Flour, Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Eggs
For a taste of traditional Italian baking, try these Italian Fig Cookies. They are a classic holiday treat that is loved by all. The tender cookie dough is filled with a sweet fig and nut filling and topped with a simple glaze. They are a must-have on any holiday cookie tray.
The key to making these cookies is using high-quality figs and nuts. You can also add a touch of cinnamon or orange zest to the filling for an extra burst of flavor. These cookies are best served with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy and comforting treat.
Ingredients for Italian Fig Cookies
The Pastry Crust
To make the perfect pastry crust for your Italian fig cookies, you will need:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
1/4 cup vegetable shortening, chilled
1/4 cup ice water
The Fig Filling
For the delicious fig filling, you will need:
1 cup dried figs, chopped
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup orange marmalade
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add in the butter and shortening, and mix with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two equal parts, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Fig Filling
In a food processor, combine the dried figs, cranberries, raisins, walnuts, almonds, honey, marmalade, and spices. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out one of the dough portions into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Spread half of the fig filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from the long side. Repeat with the other dough portion and remaining filling.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Place the rolled-up dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown. Let the cookies cool for 10 minutes before slicing into 1-inch pieces. Serve and enjoy your homemade Italian fig cookies!
Now that you have an authentic Italian fig cookies recipe, it's time to get baking! These cookies are not only delicious but also make a beautiful addition to any holiday dessert spread. Give them a try and impress your loved ones with a taste of Sicily. Buon Appetito!
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