Hyderabadi Canestrelli Delight

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the original Italian Canestrelli recipe is enhanced with Hyderabadi flavors. The addition of saffron, cardamom, and rose water infuses the cookies with the aromatic essence of Hyderabadi cuisine, giving them a unique taste and aroma that sets them apart from the traditional Italian version. We alse have the original recipe for Canestrelli (Emilia-Romagna), so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100g) powdered sugar 1/2 cup (100g) powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands, soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands, soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1 teaspoon rose water 1 teaspoon rose water
• Slivered pistachios, for garnish (optional) Slivered pistachios, for garnish (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 11g, 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. 2.
   Add the saffron-infused milk, cardamom powder, and rose water to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture and knead until a soft dough forms.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into round cookies.
5. 5.
   Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
7. 7.
   Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown around the edges.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
9. 9.
   Garnish with slivered pistachios, if desired.
10. 10.
    Serve and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — Soak the saffron strands in warm milk for at least 10 minutes to release their flavor and color.
• Cardamom powder — Use freshly ground cardamom powder for the best aroma and taste.
• Rose water — Use a high-quality rose water to enhance the fragrance of the cookies.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced saffron flavor, crush a few strands of saffron and mix them directly into the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can increase the amount of powdered sugar slightly.
• Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for the best texture of the cookies.
• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
• These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of Hyderabadi chai or coffee.

Serving advice

Serve the Hyderabadi Canestrelli Delight as a delightful tea-time snack or as a sweet treat after a Hyderabadi meal. They can be enjoyed on their own or alongside a cup of aromatic Hyderabadi chai.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Canestrelli on a beautiful platter, garnished with slivered pistachios, to enhance their visual appeal. Serve them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.