Navette cookies, with their charming boat-like shape and delicate flavor, are a delightful treat that’s easier to bake than you might think. Originating from the south of France, these cookies are traditionally enjoyed during the maritime celebration of Candlemas. But why wait for a special occasion? With this guide, you’ll be able to enjoy these little ships of deliciousness any time you crave a taste of France.
Unlocking the Secrets of the Navette
Navette, meaning “little boat” in French, gets its name from its unique shape, reminiscent of the traditional fishing boats of Marseille. Legend has it that these cookies symbolize the safe arrival of Mary Magdalene and the Three Marys to Provence by sea. This captivating history adds a layer of charm to every bite.
Despite their elegant appearance, navette cookies are surprisingly simple to make at home. Their flavor profile is all about delicate sweetness with a hint of orange blossom, making them a perfect accompaniment to coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine.
Charting Your Course: Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to set sail on your navette baking journey:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
- 1 tablespoon milk
Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Setting Sail: Tools for Your Baking Expedition
Gather these essential tools before you begin:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife
Navigating the Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Preparing the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the orange blossom water and milk. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.
-
Shaping the Boats: Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into diamond shapes, about 3 inches long and 1 inch wide at the center.
-
Creating the Signature Indentation: Using the back of a knife handle or your thumb, make a shallow indentation lengthwise down the center of each diamond shape. This creates the boat-like hull of the navette.
-
Baking to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
-
Cooling & Glazing: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before glazing. To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.
Navette Cookie Dough
Tips from a Seasoned Baker
- Orange Blossom Water: This ingredient is key to the navette’s unique flavor. You can find it in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online. If you can’t find it, you can substitute it with an extra tablespoon of milk and a teaspoon of orange zest.
- Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.
- Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while baking, as oven temperatures can vary. The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden brown.
FAQs: Addressing Your Navette Queries
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: Yes, but reduce the amount of salt in the recipe to 1/8 teaspoon.
Q: Can I freeze navette cookies?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked cookies for up to 3 months. Just bake them from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I make navette cookies without a glaze?
A: Of course! They are equally delicious plain. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for a simpler finish.
Baked Navette Cookies
Anchoring Your Baking Adventure
Making navette cookies is a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results. So why not gather your ingredients and embark on a baking adventure to the south of France, right from your own kitchen? Don’t forget to share your experiences and photos in the comments below!
Want to explore more delightful recipes from around the world? Check out our other baking adventures on Family Cuisine! [internal_links]
