Are you looking for a delicious and authentic recipe for Aunt Pearl's sesame seed cookies, known as giuggiulena? These traditional Italian cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With their unique combination of sesame seeds, honey, and spices, these cookies offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know to create these delectable cookies. We'll take you through the step-by-step process, from gathering the necessary ingredients to baking and decorating your cookies. So, get ready to embark on a culinary journey and discover the secrets behind Aunt Pearl's famous giuggiulena.
Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!
AUNT ANNE'S SESAME COOKIES
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
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
SESAME SEED COOKIES
Though these are reminiscent of the traditional Greek or Italian cookies of the same name, the recipes originates in the US south and traces its roots to Africa. Nutty toasted sesame seeds are included in the dough as well as serving as the crispy coating. They are now commonly served at Kwanzaa celebrations. I have not tried this yet but am posting for ZWT 3.
Provided by justcallmetoni
Categories Dessert
Time 40m
Yield 3 dozen, 36 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- In a large heavy skillet over medium heat, toast sesame seeds until golden brown, shaking skillet and stirring frequently to keep them moving. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Measure flour and remaining ingredients into a large mixing bowl.
- With hand-held mixer at low speed, beat until well blended, occasionally scraping bowl. With spoon, stir in 1/2 cup sesame seeds.
- Using about 2 teaspoons of dough for each cookie, shape into ovals about 2 inches in length; roll in remaining toasted sesame seeds. Place ovals about 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake in preheated 350° oven for about 20 minutes, or until lightly browned. Remove cookies to wire racks to cool. Store in tightly covered container for up to 1 week.
- Makes about 36 sesame seed cookies.
AUNT ANNE'S SESAME COOKIES
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 Italian Recipes
Time 32m
Yield 60
Number Of Ingredients 9
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:
- Toast the sesame seeds: This enhances their flavor and makes them more fragrant.
- Use high-quality honey: The flavor of the honey will come through in the cookies, so use a honey that you enjoy the taste of.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing will make the cookies tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Chill the dough before baking: This helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents them from spreading too much.
- Bake the cookies until they are golden brown: This ensures that they are cooked through and have a slightly crispy exterior.
Conclusion:
Aunt Pearl's sesame seed cookies, also known as giuggiulena, are a delicious and easy-to-make treat. They are perfect for any occasion, from a casual snack to a special dessert. With their sweet and nutty flavor, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
You'll also love