Galletas italianas de pasta batida

Ingredientes

• 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour (a tablespoon more at a time if needed) (188)
• 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons powdered/icing sugar (sifted) (75g)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 pinch salt
• 1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon butter (very soft) (125g)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon zest (orange or lemon optional)
• 2 1/2 ounces dark chocolate (melted) (more if necessary)
• 2-3 tablespoons powdered/icing sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons sprinkles or finely chopped nuts
• 3-4 glazed cherries (red and or green)

Preparación

1. 1

   In a medium bowl sift in the flour, salt and baking powder.

2. 2

   In a stand mixer or large bowl beat the butter until creamy approximately 2 minutes, add the sifted powdered sugar half at a time, beat until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes with the flat beaters, add the beaten egg and vanilla and zest if using beat 1-2 minute on high with the whisk attachment.

3. 3

   Add the sifted dry ingredients in two batches and whip on speed #2 until very soft and fluffy 1-2 minutes. If too dense add a tablespoon or two of milk.

4. 4

   Immediately place the dough in a pastry bag with a ½ inch / 1 cm star (do not chill the dough or it will become too hard to pipe).

5. 5

   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape the cookies as desired, top with a cherry or jam. Chill the pan for at least 30 minutes. Pre-heat the oven to 340F/170C.

6. 6

   Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes then move to a wire rack to cool completely before dipping in chocolate or dusting with powdered/icing sugar. Enjoy!