Fluffy ladyfingers

Fluffy Ladyfingers Recipe: A Delicacy for Family Gatherings

Who doesn't love a dessert that brings a smile to the faces of loved ones? Fluffy ladyfingers are not only an excellent choice for a sweet snack but also a wonderful way to gather the family around the table. They have a light and airy texture, almost unbelievable, and a delicate flavor, perfect for serving alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Plus, this quick and simple recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Number of servings: Approximately 20 ladyfingers

Ingredients:
- 5 large eggs
- 10 tablespoons of sugar (approximately 200 g)
- 10 tablespoons of flour (approximately 200 g)
- 5 tablespoons of oil
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon of ammonia dissolved in lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Raisins (optional, to taste)
- Turkish delight (optional, cut into cubes)
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the oven and the tray
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Make sure you have a baking tray ready, which you can line with parchment paper to facilitate the removal of the ladyfingers after baking. It is important to leave enough space between the ladyfingers, as they will expand during baking.

2. Separating the eggs
Carefully separate the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential that the bowls in which you beat the egg whites are completely clean and free of grease, to achieve an airy foam. If in doubt, you can use a stainless steel or glass bowl.

3. Beating the egg whites
In a large bowl, add the egg whites and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until they become frothy, but do not overdo it, as they should not be extremely stiff. A medium foam is ideal for giving the ladyfingers a fluffy texture.

4. The yolk cream
In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sugar using the mixer, until you obtain a smooth and light-colored cream. This step is essential for incorporating air into the mixture, which will help achieve a light texture.

5. Combining the ingredients
Once the yolk cream is ready, carefully add the egg white foam, gently folding with a spatula using up-and-down motions. This will maintain the air in the egg whites, essential for the fluffiness of the ladyfingers. Then, drizzle in the oil and mix again.

6. Adding the dry ingredients
Dissolve the ammonia in the lemon juice and add it to the mixture along with the lemon zest. Then, incorporate the flour, pouring it in gradually while continuously mixing with the spatula. You will get a very soft but homogeneous dough. This is the perfect time to add raisins or Turkish delight if you choose to use these delicious ingredients.

7. Shaping the ladyfingers
Use a teaspoon to form portions of dough on the prepared tray, leaving enough space between each ladyfinger, as they will expand. You can use a damp spatula to shape them evenly.

8. Baking
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the ladyfingers for about 20 minutes, or until they become golden at the edges. It is important not to open the oven in the first 15 minutes, as it may affect the baking process.

9. Finishing
Once the ladyfingers are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a rack. Place them on a plate sprinkled with powdered sugar and dust them again with powdered sugar for an attractive appearance.

Serving Suggestions
Fluffy ladyfingers are excellent served plain, but they can also be accompanied by a scoop of ice cream or a warm chocolate sauce. You can also try serving them with a cup of citrus tea or a strong espresso. Their sweet and slightly tangy flavor will pair perfectly with the aromas of these beverages.

Nutritional Information
Each ladyfinger has approximately 75 calories, making them a relatively light choice for a snack. Additionally, eggs are a good source of protein, and lemon adds vitamin C, contributing to a dessert that is not only delicious but also nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
- Yes, but the texture of the ladyfingers will be slightly different. Whole wheat flour can add a richer flavor, but you may need to adjust the amount of liquid.

2. How can I store the ladyfingers?
- Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.

3. What other flavors can I add?
- You can experiment with flavors such as vanilla, almond, or even cinnamon to give them a personalized touch.

Possible Variations
- Chocolate ladyfingers: Add cocoa powder to the dough to turn them into chocolate ladyfingers.
- Nutty ladyfingers: You can incorporate ground nuts or almond flakes for added texture and flavor.

Personal Note
This fluffy ladyfinger recipe reminds me of my childhood when my mother would make them for holidays. The aroma of lemon and the sweetness of sugar would fill the house with joy. I warmly recommend making them for a special occasion or just to treat yourself. Enjoy!