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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Pan di Stelle
Making Pan di Stelle from scratch is a straightforward process, and the results are worth the little bit of effort. Let’s get started!
1. Prepare the Dough
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, hazelnut meal (or ground almonds), baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture will be the foundation of your dough, providing both flavor and structure.
Next, add the softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix everything together until a dough forms. The dough should be smooth and slightly firm. If it feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
2. Roll Out the Dough
Once your dough is ready, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (about 6 mm). If you have star-shaped cookie cutters, now is the time to use them! If not, any shape you like will work—though star shapes are ideal for the authentic Pan di Stelle look.
Use a star-shaped cookie cutter (or any shape of your choice) to cut out your cookies. Carefully place each cut-out cookie on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
3. Decorate with Sugar or Sprinkles
To give your cookies that signature “starry” look, sprinkle a little bit of coarse sugar or chocolate sprinkles on top of each cookie. This will add a slight crunch and make them look even more festive. It’s also what gives these cookies their signature sparkle.
4. Bake the Cookies
Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake them for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t over-bake. The cookies should be firm and slightly crisp on the edges but soft in the center. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Enjoy!
Once your homemade Pan di Stelle have cooled, it’s time to enjoy them. The delicate chocolate flavor paired with the hazelnut and sugar sprinkles creates a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re having them with a cup of tea or sharing them with friends and family, these starry cookies are bound to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love Homemade Pan di Stelle
- Rich and Chocolatey: With a double dose of cocoa powder and the nutty undertones of hazelnut meal, these cookies are every chocolate lover’s dream.
- Customizable: Want to make them even more decadent? Dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate or add a few extra sprinkles for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy afternoon at home, a holiday celebration, or a special gathering, these cookies fit any occasion with their charm and delicious taste.
- Simple to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, homemade Pan di Stelle are as accessible to make as they are fun to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Pan di Stelle is a sweet treat that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring by yourself. Their chocolatey richness, delicate texture, and starry appearance make them a timeless dessert that can brighten up any day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a homemade snack, these cookies are sure to delight.
So, why not bring a bit of Italy to your kitchen this weekend? With this simple recipe, you can make your very own batch of Pan di Stelle—starry sweetness at its finest!
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