Zaletti - Italian Cornmeal Cookies

Ingredients

• 1 cup (120g) cornmeal 1 cup (120g) cornmeal
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (125g) 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
• 1/2 cup (75g) raisins 1/2 cup (75g) raisins
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat: 6g (3g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 15g (6g sugars)
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Fold in the raisins until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. 6.
   Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Take small portions of the chilled dough and shape them into small diamonds or squares.
9. 9.
   Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden around the edges.
10. 10.
    Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before dusting them with powdered sugar.
11. 11.
    Serve and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Make sure to use fine cornmeal for a smoother texture in the cookies.
• Raisins — Soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the dough to plump them up and prevent them from drying out during baking.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a tablespoon of grappa or rum to the dough.
• If you prefer a more citrusy taste, you can add a bit of orange zest along with the lemon zest.
• To achieve a crumbly texture, avoid overmixing the dough.
• Dust the cookies with powdered sugar just before serving to enhance their visual appeal.
• Store the Zaletti in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Serving advice

Serve Zaletti alongside a cup of espresso or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. They are also perfect for serving at special occasions or as a sweet ending to an Italian-inspired meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Zaletti on a decorative platter and dust them generously with powdered sugar. You can also garnish the platter with fresh lemon slices or sprigs of mint for an elegant touch.