Italian Horn Cookies, or “Cornetti”, are delightful crescent-shaped treats known for their tender texture and delicate, slightly sweet flavor. They’re a holiday favorite in many Italian-American homes, especially around Christmas! These cookies are made with a rich dough, typically flavored with vanilla, almond, or citrus zest, and often filled with a layer of fruit jam, nut paste, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
Italian Horn Cookie Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sour cream or ricotta cheese (adds softness to the dough)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional for a hint of citrus)
- Pinch of salt
- Filling of your choice: apricot or raspberry jam, almond paste, or cinnamon-sugar
For Dusting:
- Powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces, then use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until the dough just comes together. - Chill the Dough:
Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps make it easier to roll and gives it a tender, flaky texture. - Roll Out and Shape:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide the dough into four parts for easier handling. Roll each portion into a circle about 1/8-inch thick. Cut each circle into 8 wedges, like pizza slices. - Add the Filling:
Place a small amount of your filling at the wider end of each wedge. Be careful not to overfill, as the filling can leak out. Roll each wedge from the wide end to the point, forming a crescent shape. - Bake:
Arrange the crescents on the baking sheet and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. - Dust with Powdered Sugar:
Let the cookies cool, then generously dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
Tips and Variations:
- Fillings: These cookies are versatile! Try fig jam for a traditional Italian twist or chocolate-hazelnut spread for a richer flavor.
- Presentation: For special occasions, drizzle with a thin icing made of powdered sugar and milk, or dip the ends in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts.
