Best Easy Cavallucci Senesi Recipe

Sienese spiced cookies with walnuts, candied fruits, and anise are a medieval treat. These traditional mediterranean biscuits are a family holiday baking tradition.

Cook 55 min Difficulty NORMAL 168 kcal
#mediterranean #vegetarian
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • All-purpose flour 1.75 cups
  • Walnuts, coarsely chopped 0.75 cups
  • Candied orange peel, chopped 0.33 cup
  • Candied citron, chopped 0.33 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Granulated sugar 0.75 cup
  • Water 0.25 cup
  • Ground anise seed 1 tsp
  • Ground cinnamon 0.5 tsp
  • Ground coriander 0.25 tsp
  • Baking soda 0.25 tsp
  • Salt 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 26 g 62%
Protein 3 g 7%
Fat 6 g 31%
Serving size 45g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 340°F (170°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. 2

    In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium-low until sugar fully dissolves and the syrup just reaches a gentle simmer. Do not boil.

  3. 3

    In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, ground anise, cinnamon, and coriander. Stir in the chopped walnuts and candied fruits for even distribution.

  4. 4

    Pour the warm sugar syrup over the dry ingredients. Mix quickly using a sturdy spatula until a sticky, stiff dough forms. If needed, use your hands to bring it together while it's still warm.

  5. 5

    With lightly floured hands, shape the dough into walnut-sized balls (about 2 tbsp each), flattening slightly. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.

  6. 6

    Bake for 18–22 minutes on the center rack until the cookies are set but remain pale with slightly cracked tops. Do not overbake; cookies should be chewy in the center.

  7. 7

    Remove from oven and cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling completely before serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What are the signature ingredients in Cavallucci Senesi and how do they contribute to the overall flavor?
The hallmark ingredients of Cavallucci Senesi are walnuts, candied orange and citron, and ground anise seed. The walnuts add crunch and an earthy base, while the candied peels bring bursts of sweet citrus and balance the spice. Ground anise gives a distinct aromatic note, characteristic of this traditional Sienese cookie.
Q. What is the key to achieving perfect texture when baking these cookies?
To achieve the classic chewy center with a delicate exterior, avoid overbaking. The cookies should remain pale with slightly cracked tops when done—usually after 18–22 minutes in a 340°F oven. Pull them out as soon as they are set but before browning to prevent a dry or hard result.
Q. How do I ensure the spices are balanced and not overpowering in each bite?
Mixing the spices (anise, cinnamon, and coriander) thoroughly with the flour before adding the wet ingredients ensures even distribution. This technique helps each bite of the cookie to deliver a harmonious, nuanced spice profile without any one flavor dominating.
Q. What are the estimated calories and macro ratios per serving in this recipe?
Each serving (45g) provides approximately 168 kcal, with about 26g carbohydrates (62%), 3g protein (7%), and 6g fat (31%). Cavallucci Senesi are moderate in fat and protein, but carbohydrates are the dominant macronutrient due to the flour and candied fruits.
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