Best 2 Aunt Pearls Sesame Seed Cookies Giuggiulena Recipes

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Italian cookies with our collection of delectable recipes. From the classic Giuggiulena, renowned for its delicate sesame seed flavor, to the irresistible Pignolata, adorned with sweet honey glaze and chopped nuts, our recipes offer a tantalizing journey through Italy's rich culinary heritage. Discover the secrets of creating the perfect Ricciarelli, characterized by their almond paste center and dusting of powdered sugar, and indulge in the delightful simplicity of Brutti ma Buoni, rustic cookies known for their crispy texture and nutty flavor.

Prepare to be captivated by the intricate beauty of Amaretti, featuring a unique combination of almond extract and apricot jam, and delight in the chewy goodness of Torcetti, their twisted shape adding an extra touch of charm. Whether you prefer the subtle elegance of Baci di Dama, sandwich cookies filled with a rich chocolate ganache, or the vibrant colors of Canestrelli, decorated with sprinkles and citrus zest, our recipes cater to every taste and occasion. Let your senses be captivated as you embark on a culinary adventure, exploring the diverse flavors and textures of these treasured Italian cookies.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

SESAME SEED COOKIES I

Sesame Seed Cookies I image

Italian cookies rolled in sesame seeds

Provided by Connie Lombardo

Categories World Cuisine Recipes European Italian

Yield 42

Number Of Ingredients 6

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup white sugar
1 ½ cups shortening
¾ cup milk
.063 teaspoon anise oil
2 ounces sesame seeds

Steps:

Combine flour and sugar in a bowl. Cut in shortening with a pastry blender-or work with your hands - until mixture resembles coarse meal.
Add anise oil (optional) small amount for it is very strong, to 1/2 cup of the milk and add to flour mixture. Gradually add more of the milk mixing until dough holds together.
Pull off small portions of dough and roll between palms of the hands into a roll about finger size. Roll in sesame seeds. Seeds stick better if put in sugared water and taken out and put on a clean lintless cloth. Roll on cloth with seeds, then flatten out too about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into 2 inch strips, place on ungreased baking sheet.
Bake at 350 degrees F (180 degrees C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove, cool completely, then store in an airtight container.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 136.4 calories, Carbohydrate 14.4 g, Cholesterol 0.3 mg, Fat 8.2 g, Fiber 0.5 g, Protein 1.6 g, SaturatedFat 2 g, Sodium 2.2 mg, Sugar 5 g

AUNT ANNE'S SESAME COOKIES

Aunt Anne's Sesame Cookies image

After trying my hand at countless sesame cookie recipes, my Italian girlfriend shared her Aunt Anne's recipe and I knew my search had ended! Basically an anise flavored butter cookie covered in sesame seeds. The smell when removing them from the oven is wonderful!

Provided by DianeF

Categories World Cuisine Recipes European Italian

Time 32m

Yield 60

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1 cup butter
¾ cup sugar
1 egg, room temperature
2 teaspoons anise extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon baking powder
⅛ teaspoon salt
½ cup milk, or as needed
1 cup sesame seeds

Steps:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and anise extract until well blended. Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt; stir into the butter mixture until well incorporated. If you are using a stand mixer, let the dough mix for another minute to add lightness to the dough. The dough will be soft, but will hand roll easily.
Pinch off pieces of dough slightly smaller than a walnut, and roll them into small logs. Dip in milk, then roll in sesame seeds. Place cookies one inch apart on a cookie sheet. Cookies will not spread very much.
Bake for 17 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven, or until bottom and sides of cookies are lightly toasted. Remove from cookie sheets to cool on wire racks. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 72.1 calories, Carbohydrate 7.1 g, Cholesterol 11.4 mg, Fat 4.4 g, Fiber 0.4 g, Protein 1.2 g, SaturatedFat 2.2 g, Sodium 30.5 mg, Sugar 2.6 g

Tips:

Mise en place: Before starting, measure and prepare all ingredients and equipment. This will ensure a smooth and efficient baking process.
Toast the sesame seeds: Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their flavor and aroma. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
Use fresh ingredients: High-quality ingredients will result in better-tasting cookies. Use real butter, pure vanilla extract, and fresh eggs.
Chill the dough: Chilling the dough before baking helps it to hold its shape and prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
Bake the cookies until golden brown: The cookies are done when they are golden brown around the edges and the centers are set.

Conclusion:

Aunt Pearl's Sesame Seed Cookies (Giuggiulena) are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for any occasion. With their unique combination of sweet and savory flavors, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to produce delicious results. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy these delightful cookies!