Girandola Cookies: Beautiful and delicious!

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Start by creaming the softened butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl. Mix until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until fully incorporated.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough forms a soft, non-sticky consistency. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and roll out.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

1. Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and divide it into two portions for easier handling.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough into a thin rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Aim for a size that’s large enough to be sliced into swirls later—approximately 9 x 12 inches.

Step 3: Add the Filling

1. Spread a thin layer of your chosen filling over the dough. You can use jam, fruit preserves, or chocolate spread—whatever you prefer. Be sure not to add too much filling to prevent it from oozing out while baking.
2. Gently roll the dough into a log shape, starting from one edge and rolling towards the other. If the dough starts to tear, don’t worry—simply patch it up as you go.

Step 4: Slice and Arrange

1. Slice the rolled dough into approximately ½-inch slices. These slices should form the classic Girandola swirl pattern.
2. Place the cookie slices onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a small amount of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 5: Egg Wash and Baking

1. Lightly beat the second egg and brush the tops of the cookie swirls with the egg wash to give them a shiny, golden finish.
2. Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown around the edges.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Once cooled, you can dust the cookies with a little powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.

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Tips for Perfect Girandola Cookies

• Roll the dough thinly: The thinner the dough, the more delicate and crispy the cookies will be. However, make sure not to roll the dough too thin that it tears easily.
• Experiment with fillings: While fruit jams and chocolate are classic, feel free to get creative! Consider using hazelnut paste, cream cheese, or even pistachio paste for unique flavor combinations.
• Chill the dough: Don’t skip the chilling process! Chilling the dough helps prevent it from becoming too soft or sticky and makes the rolling process much easier.
• Store properly: To maintain the freshness of the cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

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Conclusion: A Beautiful and Delicious Treat

Girandola cookies are a perfect treat for anyone who loves baking and wants to impress their guests with both beauty and flavor. The combination of buttery, tender dough and sweet, flavorful fillings creates a balanced and delightful cookie. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just looking to try something new, these cookies will undoubtedly become a favorite.

So, gather your ingredients, get creative with fillings, and enjoy making—and eating—these gorgeous, delicious Girandola cookies!