Canadian Maple Syrup Minne di Sant’Agata

Ingredients

In the original Italian recipe for Minne di Sant’Agata, the filling is typically made with ricotta cheese, sugar, and chocolate chips. However, in this Canadian adaptation, the filling is enhanced with the addition of maple syrup and a hint of cinnamon, giving it a unique Canadian twist. The traditional Italian glaze is replaced with a maple glaze, and the garnish of chopped pecans adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Minne di Sant’Agata, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup (60ml) Canadian maple syrup 1/4 cup (60ml) Canadian maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons Canadian maple syrup 2 tablespoons Canadian maple syrup
• Chopped pecans, for garnish Chopped pecans, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 12g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture and stir until the dough comes together.
4. 4.
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for a minute until smooth. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. 5.
   In the meantime, prepare the filling by combining the ricotta cheese, maple syrup, and ground cinnamon in a bowl. Mix until well combined.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm). Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles of dough.
8. 8.
   Place a teaspoon of the ricotta filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal.
9. 9.
   Arrange the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. 10.
    In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and maple syrup to make the maple glaze.
11. 11.
    Once the pastries have cooled slightly, drizzle the maple glaze over the top and sprinkle with chopped pecans.
12. 12.
    Serve the Canadian Maple Syrup Minne di Sant’Agata at room temperature and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ricotta cheese — Make sure to use a good quality ricotta cheese for a creamy and smooth filling.
• Canadian maple syrup — Opt for pure maple syrup rather than artificially flavored syrups for the best flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of Canadian whiskey to the filling mixture.
• If you prefer a stronger maple flavor, you can increase the amount of maple syrup in the filling and glaze.
• Dust the pastries with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
• These pastries are best enjoyed on the day they are made, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Serve the Canadian Maple Syrup Minne di Sant’Agata with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.

Serving advice

Serve the Canadian Maple Syrup Minne di Sant’Agata as a delightful dessert after a Canadian-inspired meal. These bite-sized pastries can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Canadian Maple Syrup Minne di Sant’Agata on a platter, allowing the golden brown pastries to showcase their delicious filling. Drizzle the maple glaze over the top and sprinkle with chopped pecans for an attractive and inviting presentation. Serve on a dessert plate with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.