" /> " /> " /> "> Authentic Italian Cenci: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Authentic Italian Cenci: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
  • A pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup of Vin Santo or other sweet dessert wine
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • Grated zest of 1 orange
  • Grated zest of 1 lemon
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Add the melted butter to the mixture.
  3. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then add them to the mixture.
  4. Mix in the Vin Santo or dessert wine, vanilla extract, and the grated zest of the orange and lemon.
  5. Work the mixture together until it forms a dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
  6. Cover the dough with a kitchen cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
  7. After the dough has rested, roll it out on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
  8. Cut the dough into strips or desired shapes.
  9. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
  10. Fry the dough pieces in the hot oil until they are golden brown, then remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels.
  11. When the cenci are cooled, dust them with powdered sugar and serve.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
  • Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced flavor.
  • Replace the Vin Santo or dessert wine with rum or brandy for a different taste.
  • Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to the dough for added crunch.
  • Try using different citrus zests, such as lime or grapefruit, to vary the flavor.
  • Serve the cenci with a chocolate dipping sauce or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a decadent twist.
  • Create a savory version by omitting the sugar, adding herbs and spices like rosemary or garlic powder, and serving with a savory dip or sauce.
  • Make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
  • Experiment with different shapes for the cenci, such as triangles or circles, for a unique presentation.
  • Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey variation.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our delightful Cenci recipe, a traditional Italian treat! Cenci, also known as "rags", are deliciously sweet, fried pastries, usually prepared during the Carnival season. These crispy delights are dusted with powdered sugar and often served with Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine. The dough incorporates the zesty flavors of orange and lemon, making it a delightfully fragrant dessert. This recipe will guide you through a simple, step-by-step process to create your own homemade Cenci. Get ready to indulge in a taste of Italy's Carnival tradition!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can use a different type of flour, such as whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the texture and taste of the cenci.
  2. Can I substitute the Vin Santo with another ingredient? If you don't have Vin Santo or prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute it with orange juice or milk. However, note that this may affect the flavor of the cenci.
  3. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After mixing the ingredients, cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before rolling and frying.
  4. Can I bake the cenci instead of frying them? Traditionally, cenci are deep-fried to achieve their crispy texture. However, if you prefer a healthier alternative, you can try baking them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
  5. How should I store the leftover cenci? If you have any leftover cenci, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Before serving, you can briefly reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining the ingredients.
  • Whisk - To beat the eggs before adding them to the mixture.
  • Rolling Pin - To roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
  • Sharp Knife - For cutting the dough into strips or shapes.
  • Deep Frying Pan - To heat the vegetable oil and fry the cenci.
  • Slotted Spoon - For removing the fried cenci from the oil.
  • Paper Towels - To drain the excess oil from the fried cenci.
  • Sifter - To dust the cenci with powdered sugar before serving.

Origin stories

Cenci, which translates to "rags" or "tatters", is a delightful sweet treat originating from the Tuscany region of Italy. The name alludes to their irregular, ragged shape, often cut into strips or bow ties before being fried and dusted with powdered sugar. Often associated with the joyous Carnival season that precedes Lent, these sweet morsels would fill the air with the alluring scent of frying dough and sugar, becoming a symbol of celebration and merriment. The use of Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine from the region, and the citrus notes from orange and lemon zests, provide the characteristic flavors that transport you directly to a Tuscan celebration with every bite. Cenci might look humble, yet each piece carries with it a rich tradition and festive spirit, making it a beloved dessert across generations.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.