Bruttiboni, which translates to “ugly ones” in Italian, might seem like an odd name for a cookie. But don’t let that fool you! These rustic Tuscan treats are bursting with flavor and have a delightfully crunchy texture that will have you reaching for more.
Originating from the Prato region of Tuscany, bruttiboni are made with a simple dough enriched with nuts and candied fruit. The beauty of these cookies lies in their imperfections – the craggy surface, the uneven shapes, and the toasted edges all add to their charm.
In this article, we’ll journey together to create these delightful cookies right in your own kitchen. You’ll discover how easy they are to make and why their “ugly duckling” appearance belies a taste that’s anything but ordinary.
Ingredients for Tuscan Bruttiboni:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mixed candied fruit
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional)
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (optional, but helpful)
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Wire rack for cooling
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
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Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer for this step or a good old-fashioned whisk.
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Incorporate Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
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Gradual Flour Addition: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
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Fold in Treasures: Gently fold in the candied fruit, pine nuts, and almonds (if using).
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Shape the Bruttiboni: Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Don’t worry about making them perfectly smooth or even; remember, these are “bruttiboni”!
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First Bake: Place the logs onto your prepared baking sheets. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and firm to the touch.
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Cooling and Slicing: Remove the logs from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Once cooled slightly, use a serrated knife to cut each log diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices.
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Second Bake: Arrange the slices cut-side down on the baking sheets. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Cool Completely: Remove the bruttiboni from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Bruttiboni:
- Candied Fruit Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of candied fruit, such as citron, orange peel, or cranberries.
- Nutty Delights: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can reduce the amount of candied fruit and add more nuts.
- Storage: Bruttiboni can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
A Baker’s Insight:
“Many people ask me if they can freeze bruttiboni dough,” says Isabella Rossi, a renowned pastry chef from Florence. “The answer is yes! Simply wrap the dough logs tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and proceed with the recipe as instructed.”
Bruttiboni Ingredients
Bruttiboni Cooling
These rustic Italian cookies are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them with your morning coffee, as an afternoon pick-me-up, or as a sweet ending to a delicious meal. No matter the occasion, bruttiboni are sure to impress with their unique charm and irresistible flavor. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to be amazed by these “ugly but delicious” Tuscan treasures! We encourage you to share your baking experiences, photos, and any questions you may have in the comments section below. And don’t forget to explore our website for more exciting recipes and baking adventures!
