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Cavallucci marchigiani

17/11/2023

Cavallucci marchigiani are traditional cookies from the Marche region, typical in Christmas production, but appreciated all year round. They are spiced sweets, typically round and flat in shape, made with a dough rich in nuts, candied fruits, and spices. Here’s how they are prepared:

Ingredients

  • 500 g of flour
  • 200 g of roasted and coarsely chopped almonds
  • 200 g of sugar
  • 100 g of honey
  • 50 g of candied fruit (citron or orange)
  • 1 small glass of anise or mistra
  • 1 packet of baking powder for sweets
  • Grated zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon of anise seeds
  • 1 pinch of ground cinnamon
  • 1 pinch of grated nutmeg
  • A pinch of salt
  • Water as needed

Preparation

  1. Start by toasting the almonds in the oven for a few minutes, taking care not to burn them. Once cooled, chop them coarsely and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mix the sugar, honey, and aromatics: grated lemon zest, anise seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
  3. Add the chopped almonds and candied fruits cut into small pieces.
  4. Incorporate the sifted flour with the baking powder, then add the glass of anise or mistra and stir until you get a homogeneous mixture. If the dough is too dry, add a little water to achieve the desired consistency.
  5. Form small dough balls weighing about 30-40 grams each, giving them the characteristic shape of Cavallucci, which is round and slightly flattened.
  6. Arrange the Cavallucci on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 °C for about 15-20 minutes or until they are slightly golden.
  8. Remove the Cavallucci marchigiani from the oven and let them cool on a rack before serving.

These cookies are even better if left to rest for a day or two before being consumed, as this allows the flavors to blend better.

Curiosity

The name “Cavallucci” derives, according to some sources, from the custom of ancient inns offering these sweets to horseback travelers. They are characterized by the presence of anise, which gives them a very particular and recognizable aroma.

Cavallucci marchigiani