These Classic Italian Fig Cookies, or Cucidati, are sweet little gems filled with a mix of figs, nuts, and spices. They have a lovely, soft dough that makes them fun to eat!
These cookies are perfect for holidays or just a nice afternoon treat. They remind me of family gatherings, where everyone grabs one and smiles—who can resist their charm? 😊
I love making them because they’re easy to prepare and always taste better the next day. Plus, sharing them with friends is a delight! Enjoy with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fig Filling: Dried figs are essential for that classic Cucidati flavor. If you can’t find figs, you could use dates or apricots as a delicious alternative. Raisins add sweetness; you can swap them for currants or even dried cranberries.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans bring crunch and flavor to the filling. If you have nut allergies, feel free to skip them or use seeds like sunflower seeds for some crunch without the nuts.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich taste to the dough. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Marmalade: Orange marmalade contributes to the flavor and moisture in the filling. If you don’t have it, orange juice can work, but reduce the liquid slightly to maintain the right consistency.
How Do I Get the Dough Smooth and Easy to Work With?
The dough consistency is crucial for the perfect Cucidati. Make sure to follow these steps to get it just right:
- Use room temperature butter—it blends better with the flour.
- Don’t over-mix the dough; mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
- If the dough feels sticky after mixing, sprinkle a little flour on your hands and the working surface while kneading.
- Chilling the dough is important; it helps the gluten relax and makes it easier to roll out. Give it at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
This way, you’ll work with a smooth dough that’s easy to shape, and your cookies will turn out perfect every time!
Classic Italian Fig Cookies (Cucidati)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for rolling
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 2 cups dried figs, stems removed and chopped
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup orange marmalade or orange juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
For Finishing:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes for preparation, with an additional 30 minutes for chilling, and around 25 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 25 minutes before you can enjoy these sweet cookies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dried figs, raisins, chopped walnuts (or pecans), honey, orange marmalade (or juice), cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and orange zest. Mix everything well until uniformly incorporated. Set this mixture aside to let the flavors meld together while you prepare the dough.
2. Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, lemon zest, and salt. Add the softened butter to the dry mixture and rub it in with your fingertips until you achieve a coarse crumb texture. In a separate small bowl, beat the eggs and combine them with the milk and vanilla extract. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing to form a soft dough. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour as needed. Lightly knead the dough on a floured surface just until it’s smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Cookies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Divide the chilled dough into two portions. Roll each portion out on a floured surface until it’s approximately 1/8-inch thick. Use a knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into rectangles about 3 x 4 inches. Place about 1-2 teaspoons of the fig filling in the center of each rectangle. Fold the dough over the filling, creating a crescent or roll shape. Press the edges firmly to seal each cookie. Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheets.
4. Bake:
Brush the tops of each cookie with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden color. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Once baked, remove them from the oven and transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool down.
5. Serve:
Once your cookies are cooled, you can optionally dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Store the cookies in an airtight container; they tend to taste even better after a day or two. Enjoy your homemade Classic Italian Fig Cookies (Cucidati) with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Dried Fruit?
Absolutely! While figs are traditional for Cucidati, you can mix in other dried fruits like dates, apricots, or even prunes. Just keep in mind the sweetness level may vary with different fruits, so taste the filling and adjust as necessary.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy again!
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling out to make it easier to work with.
What’s the Best Way to Enjoy Cucidati?
Cucidati are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve them as part of a cookie platter for special occasions or holidays!
