Mustaccioli, a delightful and rich Italian treat, has captured the hearts of many with its unique flavor and chewy texture. These wholesome cookies are bursting with nutty goodness from roasted almonds and a hint of spice from traditional gingerbread seasoning. Perfect for festive occasions or a sweet snack any time of year, Mustaccioli offers a wonderful balance of cocoa and warmth, making them an irresistible treat that you can’t help but enjoy.
Gather Your Mustaccioli Ingredients
To make these delicious cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 250 g wheat flour (about 2 cups all-purpose flour)
- 150 g granulated sugar (approximately 3/4 cup)
- 50 g unsweetened cocoa powder (about 1/2 cup)
- 100 g roasted almonds, chopped (about 2/3 cup)
- 1 tablespoon mixed gingerbread spice
- 1 glass red wine (around 240 ml, can substitute with grape juice)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Mustaccioli Recipe
Creating Mustaccioli is simple and straightforward. Just follow these easy steps to whip up a batch of these delectable cookies:
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and spread the almonds on a baking sheet. Toast them for about 10 minutes until they are lightly golden brown. Once cooled, finely chop the almonds.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the wheat flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, gingerbread spice, baking powder, and salt. Stir thoroughly to mix all the dry ingredients together.
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Add the chopped almonds to the dry mixture, mixing until they are evenly distributed.
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Pour in the red wine and mix with a wooden spoon until a smooth and homogenous dough forms.
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With slightly damp hands, take small portions of the dough and shape them into cookies. Place each cookie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
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Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are slightly puffed and dry.
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After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving plate.
The Best Way to Serve Mustaccioli
Mustaccioli are wonderful to serve fresh from the oven, but they also keep well for a few days. Here are some ways to enjoy them:
- Garnish with Powdered Sugar: For an elegant touch, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
- Pair with Beverages: These cookies go wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of milk. Try them with a sweet dessert wine for a special treat.
- Gift Ideas: Pack them in a decorative box to give as gifts during the holidays or special occasions.
Helpful Tricks for Mustaccioli
Here are a few tips to enhance your Mustaccioli experience:
- Customize the Spice: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Nut Alternatives: If you want a different texture, swap out the almonds for walnuts or hazelnuts.
- Storage: Keep your Mustaccioli in an airtight container to maintain their chewy texture; they can last several days.
Mustaccioli FAQs
Can I use different types of flour for Mustaccioli?
Yes, you can try using whole wheat flour or almond flour for a different flavor and texture. Just keep in mind, this might alter the overall consistency of the dough.
What can I use instead of red wine?
If you’d prefer a non-alcoholic option, grape juice is a great substitute that will still provide nice sweetness to the cookies.
How do I know when Mustaccioli are done baking?
Look for a slight puff and a dry surface; they should still be soft in the center but not raw.
Don’t hesitate to gather your ingredients and try these Mustaccioli cookies! Their rich flavor and delightful texture will surely make them a favorite in your home. Happy baking!