Cuccidati, also known as Italian fig cookies, are a beloved Sicilian holiday treat. These cookies are filled with a spiced mixture of figs, dates, and nuts, wrapped in a tender, buttery dough. Traditionally made during Christmas, Cuccidati are a symbol of family and celebration in Italian culture.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange
For the filling:
- 12 ounces dried figs, stems removed
- 1/2 cup pitted dates
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup almonds or walnuts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup brandy or orange juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Colored sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Make the dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, vanilla, and orange zest. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Prepare the filling:
In a food processor, pulse the figs, dates, raisins, and nuts until finely chopped. Add the honey, marmalade, brandy (or orange juice), cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon zest. Process until the filling is smooth and well combined. Set aside.
3. Assemble the cookies:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the dough into 3-inch wide strips. Place a line of fig filling down the center of each strip. Fold the sides of the dough over the filling and press to seal. Cut the logs into 1-2 inch pieces and place them seam-side down on the baking sheet.
4. Bake the cookies:
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cookies are golden around the edges. Let them cool on a wire rack.
5. Glaze and decorate:
Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled cookies and top with sprinkles if desired.
Enjoy these delightful Cuccidati cookies with coffee or tea during the holidays!
