Italian Sesame Cookies – Reginelle

Imagine biting into a cookie that’s both crispy and tender, studded with nutty sesame seeds, and infused with the bright aroma of orange zest. That’s exactly what you’ll find in these delightful Italian Sesame Cookies – Reginelle. Originating from Sicily, these cookies are a beloved treat often enjoyed during festive occasions, but they’re perfect for any day when you crave a sweet treat.

This recipe is not just about cookies; it’s about creating a little slice of Italian tradition in your own kitchen. The buttery dough, combined with the crunch of sesame seeds, creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will transport you straight to an Italian café. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a keeper and how you can make your own batch of these scrumptious cookies.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

These Italian Sesame Cookies – Reginelle are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings, enjoying with a cup of coffee, or snacking on throughout the week. With a balance of sweetness and nuttiness, they appeal to both kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re straightforward to make, requiring simple ingredients and minimal time. You’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together!

Ingredients at a Glance

To make these cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 150g butter, softened
• 480g all-purpose flour
• 150g sugar
• 2 eggs, slightly beaten
• Zest of one orange
• 4 tablespoons milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 150g sesame seeds

These ingredients are not only easy to find but also come together to create a cookie that is wonderfully rich and flavorful.

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before we get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer or whisk – for beating the butter and sugar.
• Baking sheet – where you’ll place your cookies to bake.
• Parchment paper – to prevent sticking and for easy clean-up.
• Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy is key!
• Cooling rack – to let the cookies cool properly after baking.

Having these tools ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Italian Sesame Cookies – Reginelle, Made Easy

Now, let’s get to the fun part! Follow these simple steps to create your own Italian Sesame Cookies – Reginelle.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and achieve that delightful golden color.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a tender cookie.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Orange Zest

Pour in the slightly beaten eggs and the zest of one orange. Mix until well combined. The orange zest will add a refreshing flavor that pairs beautifully with the sesame seeds.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 5: Incorporate the Milk

Add the milk to the dough, mixing until you have a smooth, cohesive mixture. The milk will help bind the ingredients and keep the cookies moist.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Take small portions of dough and roll them into balls about the size of a tablespoon. Roll each ball in the sesame seeds until well coated. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; every oven is different, and you want to catch them just before they over-bake.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy your delicious Italian Sesame Cookies – Reginelle with a cup of your favorite beverage!

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

These cookies are delightful year-round, but here are some ideas to make them even more special during the holidays:

• For Christmas, add a sprinkle of festive colored sugar on top before baking.
• Incorporate a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor during the colder months.
• For an Easter treat, shape the cookies into small nests and fill them with chocolate eggs.
• During summer, pair the cookies with fresh fruit for a refreshing dessert option.

Insider Tips

• Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Don’t skip the orange zest; it elevates the cookies with its bright flavor.
• Experiment with different types of seeds, like poppy seeds or flaxseeds, for a unique twist.
• For added texture, try lightly toasting the sesame seeds before using them.

How to Store & Reheat

To keep your Italian Sesame Cookies – Reginelle fresh, follow these tips:

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cookies in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed bag or container for up to three months.
• To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to restore their crispness.

Handy Q&A

Can I substitute the butter for a different fat?

Yes, you can use margarine or a plant-based butter alternative, but this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cookies.

What can I use instead of orange zest?

If you don’t have orange zest, lemon zest or even a splash of vanilla extract can work well as substitutes.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before shaping and baking.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers may still look a bit soft. They will firm up as they cool.

What to Make After This

Once you’ve enjoyed these Italian Sesame Cookies – Reginelle, why not try your hand at making one of these delicious dishes?

• Baked Ziti With Italian Sausage Spinach
• Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Penne
• Italian Grinder Antipasto Chicken Salad

Make It Tonight

Now that you have this wonderful recipe in your hands, it’s time to create your own batch of Italian Sesame Cookies – Reginelle. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delightful process of baking. Whether you share them with loved ones or savor them all yourself, these cookies are sure to bring a little taste of Italy into your home. Happy baking!

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