Italian Pastries (Naturally Sweetened)

Italian Chef with Pastries

This recipe offers a delightful taste of Italy while prioritizing heart health by using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar. It focuses on wholesome ingredients and mindful preparation. Always check with your doctor or nutritionist when making changes to your diet. I love switching out my refined or artificial sweeteners for honey and maple syrup. It is my own personal preference.

Cuisine Type: Italian

Dietary Preferences: Heart-Healthy, no added refined sugar

Yields: Approximately 12 pastries

Prep time: 30 minutes

Cook time: 20-25 minutes

Estimated Nutritional Information (per pastry - using honey):

* Calories: 180-220 (depending on ingredients and portion sizes)

* Protein: 4-6g

* Carbs: 20-25g

* Fat: 8-12g

***Note:** These are estimates. Actual nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It's recommended to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.*

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

* 2 cups whole wheat pastry flour (or a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose)

* 1 teaspoon baking powder

* 1/4 teaspoon salt

* 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

* 1/4 cup olive oil

* 1/2 cup ricotta cheese, part-skim

* 1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup

* 1 large egg, lightly beaten

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

* 2-3 tablespoons cold milk or water (if needed)

For the Filling (Choose one or mix and match):

* Option 1 (Ricotta & Citrus): 1 cup ricotta cheese, part-skim, 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

* Option 2 (Almond Paste Substitute): 1 cup almond flour, 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, 1 tablespoon almond extract, 1-2 tablespoons water (enough to form a paste)

* Option 3 (Dried Fruit & Nut): 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots or figs (unsweetened), 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, 1/4 teaspoon orange zest

For the Egg Wash:

* 1 large egg yolk

* 1 tablespoon milk

Optional Toppings:

* Slivered almonds

* Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)

* Orange zest

Equipment:

* Large mixing bowl

* Pastry blender or food processor

* Rolling pin

* Baking sheet

* Parchment paper

* Small bowl for egg wash

* Pastry brush

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

* In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

* Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry blender or pulse in a food processor until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

* Add the olive oil, ricotta cheese, honey or maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.

* If the dough is too dry, add cold milk or water, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together. Be careful not to overmix.

* Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.

2. Prepare the Filling:

* While the dough is chilling, prepare your chosen filling(s).

* Ricotta & Citrus: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, honey or maple syrup, lemon zest, and cinnamon. Mix well.

* Almond Paste Substitute: In a bowl, combine almond flour, honey or maple syrup, and almond extract. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until a thick paste forms.

* Dried Fruit & Nut: In a bowl, combine chopped dried fruit, nuts, honey or maple syrup, and orange zest. Mix well.

3. Assemble the Pastries:

* Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

* On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.

* Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut out desired shapes (circles, squares, rectangles, etc.).

* Place a spoonful of your chosen filling in the center of each pastry.

* Fold the dough over the filling to create a turnover or other desired shape. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

* Alternatively, you can create open-faced pastries by leaving the filling exposed.

4. Bake the Pastries:

* In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk to create an egg wash.

* Brush the tops of the pastries with the egg wash.

* Sprinkle with slivered almonds, if desired.

* Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

5. Cool and Serve:

* Let the pastries cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

* Dust with unsweetened cocoa powder or orange zest, if desired.

* Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions:

* Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea or coffee.

* Serve as a dessert after a light Italian meal.

* Pack them in a lunchbox for a healthy and satisfying treat.

* Offer a selection of different fillings for variety.

Tips for Success:

* Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

* Don't overmix the dough, as this can result in tough pastries.

* Chill the dough thoroughly to make it easier to work with.

* Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your taste preference.

* Get creative with your fillings and shapes!

Enjoy your delicious and heart-healthy Italian pastries!