Cuccidati - Italian Christmas Cookies

figs

🥗Healthier: dried apricots

💰Cheaper: raisins

Dried apricots provide a similar sweetness with fewer calories.

walnuts

🥗Healthier: pecans

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Pecans offer a similar flavor profile with a slightly different texture.

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option while maintaining moisture.

powdered sugar

🥗Healthier: stevia

💰Cheaper: granulated sugar

Stevia reduces calories while sweetening effectively.

Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a food processor and pulse to mix.

Add caster sugar and pulse again to combine.

Add cold butter in cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.

Add vanilla extract and beaten eggs, then process until a soft dough forms.

Divide the dough into two pieces, flatten, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for 3 hours.

Soak raisins in orange juice for 30 minutes, then drain and pat dry.

Process flaked almonds and walnuts until broken down, then add cinnamon, nutmeg, chopped dates, raisins, figs, orange zest, and honey, and process until a paste forms.

Roll out chilled dough on floured parchment to about 12 inches by 6 inches.

Spread filling down the center of the dough, then fold the sides over to seal.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens