Dish

Certosino

Certosino is made with a mixture of almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, and dried fruits such as figs, raisins, and apricots. The mixture is then combined with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter to create a dense and moist cake. Certosino is often flavored with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, which give it a warm and festive flavor.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Italian cuisine

Sweet Bread

Origins and history

Certosino originated in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy and has been a traditional Christmas cake for centuries. It was originally made by the Carthusian monks, who were known for their culinary skills. The name Certosino is derived from the word "certosa" which means "charterhouse" in Italian, which is where the Carthusian monks lived.

Dietary considerations

Certosino is not suitable for people with nut allergies as it contains a variety of nuts. It is also not suitable for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease as it contains wheat flour.

Variations

There are many variations of Certosino that use different types of nuts and dried fruits. Some variations also use different spices such as cardamom or ginger.

Presentation and garnishing

Certosino is often decorated with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate. It is usually served in slices and can be garnished with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of orange.

Tips & Tricks

To make Certosino, it is important to use high-quality nuts and dried fruits. It is also important to let the cake cool completely before slicing to ensure that it holds its shape. Certosino can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.