Crostoli

Italian Crunchy Dessert - Crostoli

Crostoli are a traditional Italian dessert known for its crunchy texture and delicate flavors. This treat is especially popular during the holiday season but is perfect for any occasion, bringing a touch of joy to every meal. Although the recipe is simple, the result is impressive, and it will surely delight your guests.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

- 2 fresh eggs
- 200 ml liquid cream
- 1 tablespoon white truffle-flavored olive oil (or another high-quality oil)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of baking powder
- 350 g sifted white flour
- 1 tablespoon coconut-flavored cream (optional, can be replaced with a little unsalted soft butter)

Approximate nutritional information (per serving):

- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Protein: 4 g

Preparation instructions:

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the eggs, liquid cream, truffle-flavored olive oil, vanilla sugar, and salt. Use a mixer to blend the ingredients until you achieve a creamy and smooth mixture.

2. Adding dry ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder over the wet mixture. It’s important to add the flour last to maintain the dough's aeration. Instead of mixing, use a wooden spoon or a non-metal whisk to incorporate the flour, being careful not to overwork the dough. Once the flour is fully incorporated, you will notice that the dough becomes fine and fluffy.

3. Chilling the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This step will help develop the perfect texture for crostoli.

4. Rolling out the dough: After the dough has rested, use a rolling pin to roll it out into a very thin sheet, about 2-3 mm thick. The thinner the sheet, the crunchier the crostoli will become.

5. Cutting shapes: Using a knife or a pastry wheel, cut the dough into desired shapes: rectangles, triangles, or circles. Make sure to poke small holes with the tip of a knife in each piece to prevent excessive puffing during frying.

6. Frying: In a deep skillet, add oil (enough to cover the crostoli) and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add a few pieces of dough. Fry them until golden and crispy, which takes about 1-2 minutes on each side. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

7. Serving: Allow the crostoli to cool slightly, then dust them with powdered sugar. Serve them alongside a glass of cold milk or lemonade for a perfect combination. This dessert is especially popular among children but is equally appreciated by adults.

Useful tips:

- Choosing oil: White truffle-flavored olive oil gives a refined touch to the crostoli, but feel free to experiment with different flavored oils, such as classic olive oil or sunflower oil.
- Texture: If you want an even crunchier texture, let the crostoli cool completely on a cooling rack before dusting with sugar.
- Variations: You can add flavors such as cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough for a personalized touch. You can also try adding chocolate chips or ground nuts for a different taste.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of flour?: Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, although the final texture may change.
- Can I store crostoli?: It is recommended to consume them fresh, but if any remain, store them in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption.

Crostoli is a dessert that brings back memories of moments spent with loved ones, whether at a party, a family gathering, or simply a weekend evening. Add this simple and delicious recipe to your culinary repertoire and enjoy every bite!