Baci di pantelleria – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Italy Servings: Serves 8
Italy Servings: Serves 8Baci di Pantelleria, also known as Pantelleria’s Kisses, hail from the Italian island of Pantelleria. This delightful pastry showcases the island’s rich culinary heritage. Featuring crispy dough encasing luscious ricotta filling, these pastries are lightly dusted with powdered sugar, offering an exquisite balance of texture and sweetness. Enjoyed best with a cup of coffee or dessert wine, they represent the sweet essence of Sicilian tradition.
Ingredients
- all-purpose flour – 2 cups / 240 g
- sugar – 1/2 cup / 100 g
- unsalted butter – 1/2 cup / 115 g, cut into cubes
- eggs – 2, large
- ricotta cheese – 1 cup / 250 g
- powdered sugar – 1/4 cup / 30 g, for dusting
- vanilla extract – 1 tsp
- lemon zest – 1 tbsp
- salt – 1/2 tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Blend in the butter using your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- For the filling, combine ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, and lemon zest in a medium bowl. Mix until smooth.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick.
- Cut into rounds using a cookie cutter. Place a teaspoon of the ricotta mixture onto each round and fold them over to form half-moons.
- Seal edges by pressing with a fork. Place pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
Substitutions
- ricotta cheese -> mascarpone cheese
- lemon zest -> orange zest
- unsalted butter -> coconut oil
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Try adding a hint of cinnamon to the filling for a warm spice note.
- Use orange blossom water in the filling for a floral aroma.
- Consider a chilling step for the dough to enhance the texture.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
