Each bite offers a satisfying crunch and subtle sweetness, making them perfect for dipping into a glass of red wine. Similar to Italian apple cake and biscotti, their simplicity represents the heart of Italian cuisine, where humble ingredients create something extraordinary.
Why you need to try Italian wine cookies
They are slightly sweet and aromatic and have a subtle wine flavor. This cookie recipe will remind you of biscotti rather than a typical cookie. Like a well-made pie crust or crostata dough, wine cookie dough requires few ingredients and a simple procedure. They are excellent for pairing with coffee, dessert wine, or even a light breakfast with espresso in true Italian style. Wine cookies are typically eaten in Italy during winter and Christmas at the end of a meal. In some Italian homes, these ciambelle al vino are eaten as breakfast (since many Italians eat a small and sweet breakfast) or a mid–afternoon snack. Wine cookies pair well with a glass of sweet or red wine, and they are typically served with other types of biscotti, They are perfect for winter, the holiday season, or any time you want a sweet treat with an Italian twist. Add the flour, sugar, and baking powder to a larger bowl and mix well with a whisk. Add vegetable oil, wine, raisins, and anise seeds and mix with a fork or spatula till you have a dough ball.
STEP 2: Shape the cookies.
Knead with your hands for 1 minute to make it smooth. Don’t over-knead. Cut the snakes into 2-inch / 5cm pieces, give each one an extra roll, and then bring the two extremities together, creating a small ring.
STEP 3: Bake the cookies.
Transfer to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes at 360F or 180C. Let cool down, then arrange on a serving platter. Sprinkle with powdered sugar or dip them upside down first in water, then in regular white granulated sugar. Room temperature: Store in a tin box, glass jar, or airtight container in a cool and dry spot for 2 -3 weeks. Storage tip: Add a piece of bread to the container with the wine cookies. It will absorb excess moisture, leaving the cookies crunchy for longer. ITALIAN RECIPES FROM THE COUNTRYSIDE: Tuscan bean soup, chickpea soup, Panzanella, lentil pasta, pasta e fagioli, pasta a ceci.