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Ricette di Sicilia

Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Traditional Sicilian Dessert: Cassatelle Ragusane Recipe

Traditional Sicilian Dessert: Cassatelle Ragusane Recipe

Discover the rich flavors of Traditional Sicilian Dessert: Cassatelle Ragusane Recipe, a delightful treat that embodies Sicilian culture!

Author: Pina Romano • Published on: September 17, 2023
Categories: Desserts
Tags: chocolate chips baking powder wine white wine sugar
⏱️
Prep Time
40 minutes
🔥
Cook Time
20 minutes
👥
Servings
6 people
📊
Difficulty
Intermediate
💰 Moderate
🗓️ Easter, Year-round
⭐ 4.8/5

🛒 Ingredients

  • ✓ 500 g of durum wheat semolina flour
  • ✓ 150 g of lard
  • ✓ 2 eggs
  • ✓ 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar
  • ✓ Salt
  • ✓ Half a packet of baking powder for cakes
  • ✓ A small glass of white wine
  • ✓ 700 g of sheep’s milk ricotta
  • ✓ 200 g of sugar
  • ✓ Chocolate chips
  • ✓ Cinnamon

📊 Nutritional Information

Calories
250-300 kcal
Protein
7-10 g
Fat
10-15 g
Carbohydrates
30-35 g
Fiber
1-2 g
Sugars
10-15 g
Sodium
100-200 mg

Cassatelle Ragusane is a traditional Sicilian dessert that embodies the rich cultural heritage of the island. 
These delightful pastries, often enjoyed during Easter, are a testament to Sicily's vibrant culinary traditions. Crafted with a crumbly pastry enriched with lard, they cradle a creamy filling made from fresh sheep's milk ricotta, sugar, chocolate chips, and a hint of cinnamon. 
The aroma of freshly baked cassatelle wafting through the kitchen is irresistible, inviting you to partake in a sensory journey that celebrates Sicilian hospitality and abundance. 
Perfect for any special occasion, these pastries are a symbol of warmth and sharing, reflecting the island's deep-rooted traditions.

👨‍🍳 Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the dough: Combine the semolina flour, baking powder, sugar, eggs, and softened lard in a bowl. Gradually add white wine and mix until the dough absorbs it. Add a pinch of salt and knead until soft and elastic. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rest in a cool, dry place for about two hours.

  2. 2

    Prepare the ricotta cream: While the dough rests, drain the ricotta to remove excess whey. Mix the ricotta with sugar until smooth, then add chocolate chips and cinnamon. Set aside.

  3. 3

    Roll out the dough: After resting, roll out the dough on a floured surface. Use a pastry cutter or glass to cut circles about 15 cm in diameter. Cut thin strips from the dough to form the basket edges.

  4. 4

    Assemble the baskets: Place a thin dough strip along each circle's inner edge to form a basket. Pinch the dough at intervals to secure.

  5. 5

    Fill and bake: Prick the basket bases with a fork. Fill with ricotta cream using a pastry bag or teaspoon. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for 15-20 minutes until golden.

💡 Tips and Variations

For a variation, add a dash of vanilla extract to the ricotta cream for extra aroma. You can also sprinkle icing sugar on top before serving for added sweetness.

📦 Storage

  • • Refrigerate in an airtight container for 2-3 days, though the pastry may lose some crispness.
  • • Freeze individually wrapped in plastic or foil for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 150°C for a few minutes.
  • • Store in a cool, dry place to maintain crispness and avoid moisture.

🍷 Pairing

Pair Cassatelle Ragusane with a glass of Moscato Passito di Pantelleria Liquoroso. This sweet wine's delicate aroma and flavour harmonise beautifully with the dessert's ricotta cream, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

Thank you for exploring the flavours of Sicily with Cassatelle Ragusane. We hope this recipe brings a taste of tradition to your table. Share it with friends and family, and let us know your thoughts. Enjoy your culinary journey!

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