Introduction
Transform humble ingredients into irresistible Italian cookies! These Baci di Dama, meaning “lady’s kisses,” are melt-in-your-mouth delights that are surprisingly easy to make. Get ready for a taste of Italy in your own kitchen – perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!).
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s a beautiful balance of simple ingredients and amazing flavor. The combination of hazelnuts, butter, and sugar creates a rich, nutty cookie that’s both delicate and satisfying. Plus, it’s a fun recipe to make with kids!
Key Ingredients
- 🌰 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and finely ground
- 🧈 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 🍯 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 🥚 2 large eggs
- 🥛 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 🥣 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 🤏 ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 🧂 ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Hazelnuts: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toast hazelnuts on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes, until fragrant. Let cool slightly, then rub in a clean kitchen towel to remove skins. Grind finely in a food processor.
2️⃣ Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is easiest with an electric mixer!
3️⃣ Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4️⃣ Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the ground hazelnuts, flour, baking powder, and salt.
5️⃣ Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
6️⃣ Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
7️⃣ Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
8️⃣ Cool and Pair: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9️⃣ Make the “Kisses”: Once cooled, pair up the cookies and spread a little Nutella or your favorite hazelnut spread between them to create the “kiss”.
Handy Tips
- For extra-nutty flavor, use hazelnut flour instead of all-purpose flour – or a mix of the two!
- Don’t overbake the cookies! They should be lightly golden, not brown.
- If your dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping the cookies.
Heat Control
Baking at 350°F (175°C) ensures the cookies bake evenly and don’t burn. Lower temperatures might result in soggy cookies, while higher temperatures could lead to burnt edges. Keep an eye on them!
Crunch Factor
These cookies have a delightful crunch from the toasted hazelnuts and a tender interior. The perfect textural balance!
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For perfectly round cookies, use a cookie scoop.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a warm spice twist.
- Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the finished cookies for extra indulgence!
Storage Tips
Store the Baci di Dama in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They also freeze well!
Gift Packaging Ideas
These cookies make a lovely gift! Package them in a pretty tin or cellophane bag tied with a ribbon. A handwritten tag adds a personal touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Chocolate Baci: Add ½ cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
🌟 Lemon Baci: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough.
🌟 Espresso Baci: Stir in 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the wet ingredients.
🌟 Salted Caramel Baci: Drizzle salted caramel sauce between the cookie pairs instead of Nutella.
Troubleshooting
- Cookies are too crumbly: The dough might be too dry. Add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
- Cookies are too soft: They might be underbaked. Bake for a few more minutes, checking frequently.
- Cookies spread too much: The dough might be too warm. Chill it before baking.
FAQ
- Can I use pre-ground hazelnuts? Yes, but freshly ground hazelnuts will have a more intense flavor.
- Can I substitute other nuts? Almonds or pecans could work, but hazelnuts are traditional and give the best flavor.
- How long do they last? Stored properly, they’ll last for about 3 days at room temperature.
Conclusion
These Baci di Dama are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! They’re delicious, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Share your creations with friends and family – and don’t forget to snap a picture and share it on RateMyRecipes! Enjoy!