December 2023

This year, from the annals of Mrs. Claus, my mother, Caryl Chakerian, has selected a cookie that she says…you must eat with wine. In Italy, they are traditionally served with Vin Santo. It’s more likely a gorgeous One Sky Vineyard Chardonnay or Gap’s Crown Vineyard Pinot in our house. My mom recommends “go a little crazy with the anise seed” because she likes the flavor, and so will you.

Cantucci di Prato

From Food & Wine Magazine

Servings: 6 dozen
Prep time: 30 mins
Total Time: 1hr 30 mins

~ Ingredients ~

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar, plus more for sprinkling
1 cup whole almonds
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons anise seeds
Finely grated zest of 1 lemon
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
2 teaspoons vin santo or other sweet wine
1 large egg white, beaten

~ Instructions ~

Preheat the oven to 350°. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with a paddle, combine the flour with the 1 cup of granulated sugar, almonds, baking powder, anise seeds, lemon zest and salt. Add the whole eggs, egg yolks and vin santo and beat at low speed until a stiff, crumbly, slightly sticky dough forms.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured work surface and knead it 2 or 3 times, until it just comes together. Divide the dough into 3 equal pieces and form each one into a 12-by-1 1/2-inch log. Transfer the logs to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of the logs with the egg white and sprinkle lightly with sugar. Bake the logs in the center of the oven for 25 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and slightly firm. Let the logs cool for 30 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer them to a cutting board.

Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. While the logs are still warm, cut them into 1/3-inch slices with a sharp serrated knife. Arrange the cantucci on the sheets, cut sides down, and bake, turning once, until golden, about 25 minutes.

Make Ahead
Once fully cooled, the cantucci can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.