Cucidati II

Recipe View Prepare the Filling: In a food processor, combine the dried figs, raisins, orange zest, and walnuts. Pulse until finely chopped and well combined. If the mixture seems too dry, add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a paste-like consistency. (5-10 minutes)

Recipe View In a large bowl, gently stir in the honey, cinnamon, chocolate chips, and orange marmalade until evenly distributed. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Make the Dough: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease two baking sheets. (2 minutes)

Recipe View In a separate large bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, sugar, and baking powder. Cut in the chilled shortening using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Add the beaten eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, forming a soft dough. (2 minutes)

Recipe View Assemble the Cookies: Lightly flour a clean work surface. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and roll it out to approximately 1/4 inch thickness. Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into strips that are about 4 inches wide. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Spoon the fig filling evenly down the center of each strip of dough. Fold one side of the dough over the filling to cover it, and gently press the edges to seal. Use the tines of a fork to create a decorative crimped edge. (10 minutes)

Recipe View Slice the filled strips crosswise at an angle, about every inch or so, to create diamond-shaped cookies. Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each one. (10 minutes)

Recipe View Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown. (15-20 minutes)

Recipe View Cool and Glaze: Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, glaze with your favorite confectioners' glaze and sprinkle with festive toppings, if desired. (30 minutes)