The 10 Most Popular Italian Pastries

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil reduces saturated fat while maintaining moisture.

ricotta cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: cream cheese

Cottage cheese is lower in fat and calories.

powdered sugar

🥗Healthier: stevia

💰Cheaper: granulated sugar

Stevia is a sugar substitute with fewer calories.

almond extract

🥗Healthier: vanilla extract

💰Cheaper: none

Vanilla extract is more commonly available.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.

In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in vanilla extract and zest of lemon and orange.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

In a separate bowl, blend ricotta cheese with powdered sugar and cocoa powder for filling.

Roll out the pastry dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.

Cut into desired shapes, such as circles or squares.

Place a spoonful of the ricotta filling in the center of each shape.

Fold over and seal the edges with a fork or fingers.

Place pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens