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Sicilian Fig Cookies (Cucidati)

Sicilian Fig Cookies (Cucidati)

These delightful Sicilian fig cookies are a holiday tradition, featuring a tender outer shell with a rich, sweet fig filling, perfect for festive cookie trays.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Holiday, Italian
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Dough
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour Sifted
  • 1 cup unsalted butter Softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg Beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the Fig Filling
  • 2 cups dried figs Chopped
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water For hydrating the figs
  • Cinnamon Adjust to taste
  • Nutmeg Adjust to taste (optional)
  • Chopped nuts Optional for added texture

Method
 

Prepare the Dough
  1. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Filling
  1. In a saucepan, combine dried figs, sugar, and water.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the figs soften and form a paste.
  3. Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, and chopped nuts if desired.
  4. Remove from heat and let cool.
Assemble and Bake
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  3. Cut into squares or circles and place a teaspoon of fig filling in the center.
  4. Fold the dough over the filling and seal edges, pinching to secure.
  5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden on the edges.
  7. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

For the best flavor, allow the cookies to rest overnight before serving. Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture.