Macanese Cuccidati

Ingredients

In this Macanese adaptation of Cuccidati, we incorporate the unique flavors and ingredients of Macanese cuisine. While the Italian version traditionally uses ingredients like figs, dates, and almonds, the Macanese Cuccidati recipe includes a blend of dried fruits such as apricots, cranberries, and raisins, along with cashews and pistachios. Additionally, we infuse the filling with Macanese spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, giving the pastries a distinct flavor profile that reflects the culinary heritage of Macau. We alse have the original recipe for Cuccidati, so you can check it out.

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 cup (150g) dried apricots, finely chopped 1 cup (150g) dried apricots, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup (75g) dried cranberries 1/2 cup (75g) dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup (75g) raisins 1/2 cup (75g) raisins
• 1/2 cup (70g) cashews, finely chopped 1/2 cup (70g) cashews, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (35g) pistachios, finely chopped 1/4 cup (35g) pistachios, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground star anise 1/2 teaspoon ground star anise
• For the glaze: For the glaze:
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 38g (Sugars: 20g)
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture and stir until the dough comes together. Knead the dough gently until smooth. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In the meantime, prepare the filling. In a bowl, combine the chopped dried apricots, cranberries, raisins, cashews, pistachios, honey, cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into small rectangles or circles.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the filling onto each piece of dough. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges to seal. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
7. 7.
   Arrange the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. 8.
   While the pastries are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
9. 9.
   Once the pastries are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the warm pastries.
10. 10.
    Allow the Macanese Cuccidati to cool completely before serving. Enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dried apricots — Ensure the apricots are finely chopped to ensure a consistent texture in the filling.
• Cashews and pistachios — Finely chop the nuts to evenly distribute their flavors throughout the filling.
• Ground spices — For the best flavor, use freshly ground cinnamon, cloves, and star anise.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can add more powdered sugar to achieve the desired sweetness.
• Experiment with different combinations of dried fruits and nuts to personalize the filling to your taste.
• Serve the Macanese Cuccidati with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Store the pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• These pastries also make great gifts for friends and family during festive occasions.

Serving advice

Serve the Macanese Cuccidati as a sweet treat during afternoon tea or as a dessert after a delicious Macanese meal. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Macanese Cuccidati on a decorative platter or serving tray. Dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Consider adding a few fresh mint leaves or edible flowers as a garnish to enhance the visual appeal.