Description
Pesche Dolci are stunning, peach-shaped cookies with a delicate, buttery texture, filled with creamy pastry cream or jam, and coated in a sugar-dusted peach-like finish. A classic Italian dessert perfect for special occasions!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cookies:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup pastry cream or vanilla custard (or substitute with Nutella or jam)
For Decoration:
- 1/2 cup peach liqueur (or apricot juice for a non-alcoholic version)
- 1/2 cup milk
- Red and yellow food coloring
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- Fresh mint or real peach leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Make the Cookie Dough:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, milk, and vanilla, mixing well.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
2. Shape & Bake:
- Roll dough into small balls (about 1 inch in size).
- Place on the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until lightly golden.
- Let them cool completely before assembling.
3. Assemble the Peaches:
- Hollow out a small center in each cookie using a small knife or spoon.
- Fill with pastry cream, jam, or Nutella, then sandwich two cookies together to create a peach shape.
4. Color & Decorate:
- Mix peach liqueur with milk in a bowl.
- In two separate small bowls, mix red and yellow food coloring.
- Dip each cookie lightly into the liquids to create a peach-like gradient.
- Roll in granulated sugar and let them dry for 1 hour.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or real peach leaves for a realistic touch.
Notes
- Alternative Fillings: Try chocolate ganache, mascarpone cream, or fruit preserves for different flavors.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Cookies can be baked a day in advance and assembled before serving.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
