Cuccidati, also known as Italian fig cookies, are a beloved treat during the holiday season and special occasions. These cookies are filled with a sweet and spiced fig mixture, wrapped in a tender dough, and baked to perfection. Cuccidati are not only delicious but also a cherished tradition that brings families together. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make these classic Italian cookies, so you can enjoy a taste of Italy in your own home.
Ingredients for Classic Italian Fig Cookies (Cuccidati)
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 cut into small pieces
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Filling:
- 1 pound dried figs, stems removed
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup apricot preserves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 orange
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Classic Italian Fig Cookies (Cuccidati)
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and mix with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Make the Filling:
- In a food processor, combine the figs, raisins, almonds, honey, marmalade, apricot preserves, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and orange zest. Pulse until the mixture forms a thick paste. Transfer the filling to a bowl and set aside.
- Assemble the Cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle. Spread a thin layer of the fig filling over the dough.
- Starting from one long side, roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 1-inch pieces. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, seam side down. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Cuccidati are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They also freeze well, so you can enjoy them throughout the holiday season.
About the Main Ingredients
- Dried Figs:
- Dried figs are the star ingredient in cuccidati, providing a sweet and chewy texture. They are rich in fiber and natural sugars, making them a healthy and delicious addition to these cookies.
- Almonds:
- Chopped almonds add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the fig filling. They also provide healthy fats and protein, making cuccidati a satisfying treat.
- Spices:
- Cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg add warmth and complexity to the fig filling. These spices are commonly used in Italian baking and complement the sweet figs and citrus zest.
- Citrus Zest:
- Lemon and orange zest add brightness and freshness to both the dough and the filling. They balance the sweetness of the figs and add a subtle citrus flavor.
- Honey and Preserves:
- Honey, orange marmalade, and apricot preserves add sweetness and moisture to the fig filling. They also help bind the ingredients together and provide a rich flavor.
