Quaresimali

Lenten cookies are traditional Italian biscuits that are prepared during the Lenten period. They are crunchy and often flavored with almonds and spices. Here’s the recipe for you.

Ingredients

• 300 g of flour
• 150 g of sugar
• 100 g of roasted and chopped almonds
• 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 pinch of ground cinnamon
• 1 pinch of ground cloves
• Grated zest of 1 lemon
• 2 eggs
• A few tablespoons of milk (if necessary)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C.
2. Roast the almonds in the oven for a few minutes, then chop them into coarse bits.
3. In a large bowl, mix the flour with sugar, chopped almonds, cocoa, cinnamon, cloves, and grated lemon zest.
4. Add the eggs and knead until you get a homogeneous mixture. If the dough is too dry, add a few tablespoons of milk to soften it.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 5 mm.
6. Cut out the cookies using a chosen shape, such as the typical bone shape or other Easter shapes.
7. Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
8. Let the cookies cool on a rack before serving.

Curiosity

The name “quaresimali” is a direct reference to the period of Lent, during which Christian tradition called for simpler and leaner eating. However, despite the name suggesting an “austere” biscuit, they are actually very tasty and perfect for a break. They also keep for several days, maintaining their crunchiness.

Enjoy your tasting and have a good Lenten period!