Description
Experience the authentic taste of Sicily with these Regina biscuits, featuring a delicate pasta frolla interior encased in a crisp, toasted sesame shell. These heritage cookies are prized for their unique architectural crunch and aromatic citrus notes, making them the perfect companion for a traditional coffee ritual.
Ingredients
- 85 grams unsalted butter (chilled and cubed)
- 2 medium eggs (separated)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- Grated zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup raw sesame seeds
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Whisk together the egg yolks, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest in a medium bowl; set aside to infuse.
- Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a food processor or bowl, then pulse or cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
- Stir the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients until a dough forms, then briefly knead on a floured surface into a smooth disc.
- Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fats to solidify and the starch to hydrate.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (375°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into six portions and roll each into a log 1 inch thick, then cut into 2.5-inch segments.
- Prepare an egg wash by whisking the reserved egg whites with two tablespoons of water in a shallow dish.
- Dip each segment into the egg wash, roll it thoroughly in the sesame seeds, and place on the baking tray.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the seeds are deep golden brown, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
To achieve the signature ‘short’ texture of an authentic Regina cookie, ensure your butter remains cold throughout the mixing process; if the dough feels soft while rolling, chill it for 10 minutes before proceeding. Use raw sesame seeds rather than pre-toasted ones, as the high heat and 25-minute bake time provide the perfect level of toasting without burning the seeds.
- Prep Time: 45 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Sicilian