Zeppole Zeppole is an Italian sweet treat made by deep frying dough and then topping with a generous amount of powdered sugar.  The hot dough melts the sugar making for a sensational treat. Nonna would fry up a batch or two every New Year’s Eve. It was her special way to ring in the new year. These delicious treats can be made for any occasion, so enjoy anytime! Ingredients 1 cup water 1 teaspoons sugar 1 package self rising yeast 2 cups all purpose flour 2 eggs whisked 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoon olive oil Powdered sugar to top the […]

Pignoli Cookies Pignoli cookies, also known as Italian pine nut cookies, are a traditional Italian dessert that originated from Sicily. The name “pignoli” translates to “pine nuts” in Italian, which are the  key ingredient in these cookies. They are characterized by their soft and chewy texture, with a slightly crisp exterior that resembles macaroons. They are enjoyed all year round but we love baking them at Christmas time. They are naturally gluten free. Ingredients 2 – 16oz boxes almond paste 1 ½ cups sugar 3 egg whites ¼ tsp salt 6 oz’s pine nuts for rolling Powder sugar for top […]

Peach Pie This is a great summertime treat. The light flaky crust and the sweetness of the peaches pair well. It’s great topped off with fresh whipped cream or ice cream and for the final addition add a sprig of mint or basil. Ingredients Ingredients: Pie Crust: 2 ½ cups all purpose flour ½ tsp salt 1 cup unsalted butter 2/3 cup vegetable shortening ½ cup cold water 1 egg yolk Ingredients Pie Filling: 12 peaches – peeled and sliced 1 ½ cups white sugar ½ cup brown sugar 3 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons vanilla Directions Steps: pie crust 1. […]

Italian Grain Pie Italian Grain Pie also known as Pastiera Napoletana.  This pie originated in Naples and is typically prepared during the Easter season. This dessert combines a rich filling made from ricotta cheese, cooked wheat berries, and various flavorings such as citrus zest and vanilla, all encased in a buttery pastry crust. The dish is known for its unique blend of textures and flavors, making it a beloved part of Italian culinary heritage. A real classic dessert. Ingredients Filling part 1: 3 tbsp flour 1 cup sugar 3 egg yolks 2 cups milk Directions Pre-heat oven 350F 1. Mix […]

Italian Cheesecake In our home, ricotta cheesecake, paired with espresso coffee was always the perfect ending to a special meal. This cheesecake recipe makes a rich, moist cake with a hint of lemon for a cool refreshing taste. Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar all over the cheesecake.  Serve with berries and fresh whipped cream on the side of plate. Garnish with a sprig of mint or basil. Ingredients FOR THE CRUST 2 cups graham cracker crumbs 8 tablespoons unsalted butter melted ¼ cup sugar FOR THE FILLING 2 lbs ricotta cheese 6 eggs separated 1¼ cup sugar 2 lemons – grated […]

Cream Puffs This is Aunt Bernice’s famous family recipe.She was always tasked with job of  making them for the holidays and special gatherings. Her cream puffs are not only picture perfect but are amazingly light, flaky and delicious. Her secret is using two spoons when scooping out the dough. The first spoon holds the dough the second spoon pushes the dough down onto the baking sheet. The dough should remain rounded in shape and not flattened, so the dough can rise up to a flaky puff when baked. The dough should be placed in a hot oven with a temperature […]

Classic Chocolate Ice Box Cake This is a quick, easy and delicious desert typically served during the summer months however, we enjoy this desert all year round. Ingredients 1 – 3.9 oz box of Jell-o instant chocolate pudding 1- 10 inch ready made graham cracker pie crust 2 cups whole milk 1- 8 ox container cool whip Directions 1. Whisk the pudding mix with milk for a few minutes till smooth. 2. Pour into graham cracker crust. 3. Top with whip cream and let set 1 hour in refrigerator

Classic Biscotti Biscotti are crunchy in texture and great for dunking in coffee or milk. They are traditionally enjoyed as a breakfast cookie but can be enjoyed anytime. This recipe is versatile and can be embellished with dried fruits and nuts like dried dark cherries and pistachios. Ingredients 1 cup sugar ½ cup butter softened 3 eggs 1 tbsp vanilla extract 1 tbsp almond extract ½ tbsp anise extract ¾ cup chopped almonds 3 cups flour 1 tbsp baking powder ½ tsp salt 1 tbsp milk Directions Preheat oven 350f Mix sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add 2 […]

Chocolate Ice Box Cake – Individual Servings This is such a rich, delicious, chocolate and creamy dessert. It’s so simple to prepare but it’s everyone’s favorite. The individual glass servings are a culinary delight  to look at and turns this dessert into a special treat! Ingredients 1 – 3.9 oz box of Jell-o instant chocolate pudding 2 cups crushed graham crackers 2 cups whole milk 8 oz container cool whip 6 clear glasses or mugs Garnish- chocolate shavings and basil Directions 1. Add the crushed graham crackers to each glass – evenly 2. Whisk the pudding mix with milk for […]

Butter Cookies This cookie has a rich buttery flavor with a crisp texture. This is a staple for our Christmas baking; however, this is a versatile cookie that could be dressed up or dressed down using your favorite cookie press shapes, sprinkles, food coloring, frosting and/or your favorite cookie garnishes and can be enjoyed for any occasion. Preheat oven 375F Ingredients 1 cup butter 1 cup sugar 1/4 cup milk 1 large egg 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 tsp almond extract optional 3 cups flour 1/2 tsp baking powder Steps: 1. In a mixing bowl, add butter, sugar, and egg, […]