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Neapolitan Tarallo

Neapolitan Tarallo

Neapolitan Tarallo is a traditional Italian biscuit with a delicate anise flavor and a hint of citrus. These crunchy, golden-brown treats are perfect for any occasion.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 taralli

Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour: 3 cups – Forms the base of the dough and gives the biscuits their structure.
  • Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup – Adds sweetness to balance the other flavors.
  • Baking powder: 1 tablespoon – Helps the taralli puff up slightly for a light texture.
  • Butter: 1/2 cup – Adds richness and flavor to the dough.
  • Eggs: 2 large – Bind the dough together and add a tender texture.
  • Lemon zest: 1 tablespoon – Adds a citrusy note that brightens the flavor.
  • Anise seeds: 1 tablespoon – Gives the taralli their characteristic aromatic flavor.
  • Water: 1/4 cup – To help bring the dough together.
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the butter and rub it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In a small bowl, whisk the eggs with the lemon zest and anise seeds. Slowly add the egg mixture to the flour mixture and stir to form a dough. If the dough is too dry, add a little water, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Divide the dough into small portions and roll each into a ball. Roll each ball into a 6-inch rope and form it into a ring, pinching the ends together to seal.
  5. Cook to Perfection: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Drop the taralli rings into the boiling water, a few at a time, and cook until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and let cool on a wire rack.
  6. Finishing Touches: Once the taralli have cooled, place them on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Let the taralli cool completely before serving. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect treat.

Notes

  • For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a dusting of powdered sugar after baking.
  • These taralli are perfect for pairing with tea or coffee.
  • If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the anise with fennel or vanilla extract.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking, Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tarallo
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 21g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Neapolitan Tarallo, Italian biscuits, anise cookies, traditional Italian snacks, homemade biscuits