Sicilian Sesame Cookies
Sicilian Sesame Cookies feature a crunchy sesame seed coating with a tender, sweet cookie base. Perfect for snacking or sharing, these cookies offer a delightful nutty flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Moisten the sesame seeds with water in a small bowl, then set aside.
- Mix the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt) together, then cut in the shortening.
- Stir in the eggs, milk, and vanilla until the mixture is smooth.
- Roll out the dough into logs, about the same thickness as a soft pretzel.
- Cut the logs into two-inch pieces and roll each piece in the sesame seeds.
- Place the coated dough pieces onto greased baking sheets, about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the sesame seeds before using them. If you don’t have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of butter or margarine. For a richer taste, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. Ensure the dough isn’t overworked to keep the cookies light and fluffy, similar to Auntie Mickey's Zucchini Fritters.
Serving Suggestions
These Sicilian Sesame Cookies are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a cup of espresso or tea. For a fun twist, serve them alongside Italian Biskets for a charming dessert platter. They can also be enjoyed as a snack during brunch or with an afternoon tea. Explore more Italian recipes for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sicilian Sesame Cookies contains roughly 150 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if necessary. However, this may affect the texture slightly. Make sure to check the blend's instructions for the best results. Additionally, whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option, but it will yield a denser cookie.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be careful not to add too much, as it can make the cookies tough. Chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes can also help firm it up.
Can I add other flavors to the cookies?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, for a fresh flavor. Chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries can also be incorporated for added sweetness and texture. Just be cautious not to alter the dry-to-wet ingredient ratio too much.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).