Cuccidati (Italian Fig Cookies)

Cuccidati, or Italian Fig Cookies, are a beloved Sicilian holiday treat filled with a rich, spiced fig and nut filling, wrapped in a tender pastry dough, and topped with a sweet glaze and festive sprinkles. These cookies are a perfect balance of chewy, crunchy, and buttery flavors, making them a must-have for Christmas and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Traditional Italian favorite: A cherished Sicilian cookie often made during the holidays.
• Rich, fruity filling: A delicious blend of figs, nuts, honey, and warm spices.
• Buttery, tender dough: The perfect contrast to the chewy filling.
• Beautifully decorated: A sweet vanilla glaze and sprinkles make them festive.
• Perfect for gifting: These cookies store well and are great for sharing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, cold & cubed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup milk

For the Fig Filling:

• 2 cups dried figs, stems removed
• ½ cup dates or raisins
• ½ cup almonds or walnuts, chopped
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup orange marmalade
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ cup orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange

For the Icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Sprinkles (optional)

Directions

Make the Dough:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add eggs, vanilla, and milk, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

1. In a food processor, blend figs, dates (or raisins), nuts, honey, marmalade, cinnamon, nutmeg, orange juice, and zest until a thick paste forms.
2. Set aside until ready to assemble.

Assemble the Cookies:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the chilled dough into 3-inch-wide strips on a lightly floured surface.
3. Spread a thin line of fig filling down the center of each strip.
4. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges by pressing lightly.
5. Place the seam-side down and slice into 2-inch pieces. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake:

1. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies turn light golden brown.
2. Let them cool completely before decorating.

Decorate:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the icing.
2. Drizzle over the cooled cookies.
3. Top with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of icing, drizzle with melted dark or white chocolate.
• Nut-Free Version: Omit the nuts and replace with extra dried fruit.
• Liqueur-Infused: Add a splash of Marsala wine or rum to the fig filling for extra depth.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dough.
• Spiced Dough: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra warmth.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Refrigeration: Keep in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
• Reheating: Enjoy at room temperature or warm slightly in a low oven for a fresh taste.

FAQs

What are Cuccidati?

Cuccidati are traditional Sicilian fig cookies, typically made during the holiday season, filled with a spiced fig and nut mixture.

Can I make Cuccidati ahead of time?

Yes! These cookies taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.

Can I use fresh figs instead of dried?

No, dried figs work best because they provide the right texture and concentrated sweetness.

How do I keep the dough from sticking when rolling?

Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking.

Do I have to use orange juice and zest?

No, but the citrus enhances the flavor. You can substitute with lemon juice or leave it out.

Can I make these cookies without a food processor?

Yes, finely chop the filling ingredients and mix well to create a thick paste.

How do I keep my cookies from getting too hard?

Do not overbake, and store them in an airtight container to keep them soft.

Can I use store-bought fig preserves instead of homemade filling?

Yes, but the homemade filling has a richer, more authentic flavor.

What’s the best way to glaze these cookies?

Drizzle the icing over cooled cookies using a spoon or dip them lightly for a full coating.

Can I make mini Cuccidati?

Yes! Simply roll smaller strips of dough and use less filling for bite-sized cookies.

Conclusion

Cuccidati (Italian Fig Cookies) are a timeless Sicilian holiday treat that brings together warm spices, citrus, and a delightful fig filling wrapped in tender pastry. Whether you’re making them for Christmas, gifting them to loved ones, or simply enjoying them with coffee, these cookies are a festive and delicious tradition. Try this authentic recipe and experience a true taste of Italy!