Delicious Italian Pinch Cookies

Italian Pinch Cookies, or Pizzicati, blend a melt-in-your-mouth shortbread with sweet jam centers for an irresistible treat. These delightful bites feature a slightly crumbly texture that's characteristic of traditional Italian desserts. The recipe combines flour, cornstarch, and powdered sugar with fresh lemon zest to create a bright, buttery base. Vanilla and an egg round out the flavors, while soft butter makes the dough wonderfully manageable after it's been chilled.

INGREDIENTS

• All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups
• Cornstarch: 1/4 cup, for that tender crumb
• Powdered sugar: 1/4 cup (extra needed for topping)
• Baking powder: 1/2 tsp, gives a gentle rise
• Unsalted butter: 10 tbsp, softened
• Vanilla extract: 1 1/2 tsp adds warmth
• Zest of 1 lemon: Brings fresh citrus notes
• Large egg: 1
• Strawberry jam: 1/3 cup, or any jam you fancy

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 7:

Let cool on a wire rack then sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Step 6:

Bake at 350°F for 12-14 minutes until you see golden bottoms.

Step 5:

Drop a tiny bit of jam in each circle's middle. Pinch the edges but leave the ends open.

Step 4:

Roll out the dough thinner than 1/4-inch. Cut out 2 1/2-inch circles.

Step 3:

Cover dough with plastic wrap and stick in the fridge for 1 hour.

Step 2:

Mix in the soft butter, vanilla, and egg with your dry stuff. Start slow, then speed up until you've got smooth dough.

Step 1:

Grab a big bowl and mix your flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, baking powder, and lemon zest.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Try different jams like raspberry, apricot or fig for fun variety.
• Keep them fresh in an airtight container for up to a week.

Helpful Notes

• Don't go overboard with the jam or it'll leak out during baking.
• Make sure your dough is nice and cold before working with it for better shapes.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Keep your dough cold right up until baking to stop cookies from spreading.
• Chef Maria says splurging on good butter really makes these cookies taste amazing.

Charming Sweet Treat for Any Occasion

These cookies work great for holidays or just enjoying with your afternoon coffee or tea.

Authentic Italian Shortbread Without the Fuss

Every bite of these simple yet elegant cookies brings a taste of Italian heritage with your favorite jam tucked inside.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Sure thing, you can make the dough and keep it in the fridge overnight.

What other fillings can I use?

Get creative with hazelnut spread or any fruity jam you love.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Absolutely, cold dough keeps the cookies from flattening out too much.

How should I store the cookies?

Just pop them in an airtight container and they'll stay good for a week at room temperature.

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Conclusion

Pizzicati cookies, also known as Italian Pinch Cookies, are buttery and melt-in-your-mouth bites filled with jam. The soft dough comes together using powdered sugar, cornstarch, and flour with a zing of lemon zest. Butter and vanilla add depth, while a chilled dough ensures easy cutting and shaping. Small circles are pinched with jam inside, baked, and topped elegantly with powdered sugar. These treats shine during parties and make excellent gifts, offering a crumbly texture and rich jam flavor in every bite. A true Italian gem for sweet lovers.