little birds of Saint Anthony

In Abruzzo, during the festivities of Saint Anthony, a sweet tradition comes to life with the little birds of Saint Anthony, a delicacy that celebrates the bond between popular culture and home cooking. These pastries, shaped like little birds, are made with a soft dough based on flour, extra virgin olive oil, and white wine, which gives them a light and fragrant texture. The real magic, however, lies in the filling: a combination of jam and almonds, enriched with the scent of oranges, providing a perfect citrus touch for the palate. The preparation requires a certain skill, as each pastry is adorned with engravings that resemble the feathers of birds, making them not only delicious but also a true feast for the eyes. Perfect to accompany a coffee during Sunday lunch or as a sweet treat to share with family, the little birds of Saint Anthony represent a festive moment that unites tradition and flavor in every bite.

Using the described ingredients, prepare a fairly soft dough, then divide it into small balls. Flatten one ball of dough and place a bit of filling in the center, then roll it up and shape the dough into an inverted 'S'. Using scissors, 'cut' the dough superficially to create the appearance of feathers, with the head at the top and the tail at the bottom. Bake the pastries in a hot oven (200°C) for about 30 minutes.