Haitian Quaresimali Cookies

Ingredients

In the adaptation of Quaresimali cookies to Haitian cuisine, we have incorporated traditional Haitian spices and flavors to give the cookies a distinct Haitian twist. The original Italian recipe typically uses ingredients such as almonds and lemon zest, which have been replaced with local Haitian spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This adaptation adds a warm and aromatic flavor profile that is characteristic of Haitian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Quaresimali, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 7g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. 6.
   Shape the dough into small logs, about 2 inches long, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. 7.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on a wire rack.
9. 9.
   Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature before creaming it with the sugar. This will ensure a smooth and even texture in the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can increase the amount of granulated sugar to 3/4 cup.
• These cookies are best enjoyed within a few days of baking. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Serving advice

Serve these Haitian Quaresimali cookies as a delightful treat alongside a cup of Haitian coffee or tea. They are perfect for enjoying during a relaxing afternoon or as a sweet ending to a Haitian-inspired meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Quaresimali cookies on a platter and dust them generously with powdered sugar. This will give them an elegant and inviting appearance. You can also garnish the platter with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.