Minne di Sant’Agata - Sicilian Almond Pastries

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) almond flour 2 cups (240g) almond flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar (for glaze) 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 1 tablespoon milk (for glaze) 1 tablespoon milk (for glaze)
• Sliced almonds, for garnish Sliced almonds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 13g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 9g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, granulated sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, eggs, and salt. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
2. 2.
   Shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. 3.
   Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand to create a disc shape.
4. 4.
   Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
5. 5.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk to make the glaze.
6. 6.
   Once the pastries have cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and sprinkle with sliced almonds for garnish.
7. 7.
   Allow the glaze to set before serving. Enjoy these delightful Minne di Sant’Agata!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond flour — Ensure that the almond flour is finely ground for a smooth texture in the pastries.
• Granulated sugar — You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference for sweetness.
• Unsalted butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Eggs — Use large eggs at room temperature for best results.
• Sliced almonds — Toast the sliced almonds lightly before garnishing for enhanced flavor and crunch.

Tips & Tricks

• For a citrus twist, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the almond filling.
• If you prefer a stronger almond flavor, substitute almond extract for vanilla extract.
• To make the pastries extra decadent, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the glaze.
• Store the pastries in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
• Serve these delightful pastries with a cup of freshly brewed espresso for a perfect pairing.

Serving advice

Serve the Minne di Sant’Agata as a delightful dessert or enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee. These pastries are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Minne di Sant’Agata on a beautiful platter, garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh mint leaves. The contrast of the white glaze, golden edges, and sliced almonds creates an inviting visual appeal.