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Pastry swirls ‘coccole’

⏱ 20 min🍳 20 min👤 8 pp★★★☆☆

Today I need a cuddle, the sky is grey and I don’t feel so good .... What better to cheer me up than to make and enjoy these fabulous ‘coccole’ pastries. ‘Coccole’ are pastry swirls made with a fluffy dough containing ricotta cheese. The original recipe comes from Anna Moroni, but we have reinterpreted it by adjusting the filling. Easy to make, and a delight to eat with their fabulous combination of dark chocolate and dates which will amaze your taste buds! You can prepare these pastry swirls for breakfast or as a snack and also fill them with hazelnut cream or jam, and even your kids will love them! Following the recipe is easy, check the photo gallery which our talented chef prepared for us and proceed step-by-step, the result will be 10/10 and lots of praise! Let's get to work and get ready for some cuddling!

Ingredients

Nutritional values 385 kcal / serving
Protein
6g
Carbohydrates
48g
Fat
18g
Fiber
2g

* approximate values per serving

Information
20 minutes Preparation time
20 minutes Cooking time
Serves 8 persons
★★★☆☆ Challenging

Preparation

Place the ricotta and sugar in a bowl, and mash together with a fork. Add the milk, mix, then add the oil and mix again. Sift in the flour with the baking powder and the vanilla extract, and combine it a little at a time to the mixture. Transfer everything to the work surface, knead the dough until you get a nice dough but where the surface is not smooth. Roll it out until you get a rectangular sheet of about 1/2cm. Sprinkle the surface with chocolate and chopped dates, then sprinkle over with icing sugar and roll it up starting from the long side to form a cylinder. Cut 1cm swirls from the roll to a thickness of 1 cm and place them on a baking tray lined with baking paper. Cook the pastries in the oven at 180°C degrees for about 20 minutes.

Tips
Dates are very rich in fibre, are laxatives and protect the mucous membrane of the colon. They are rich in vitamin A, iron and potassium, but also contain minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and copper.
Trivia
‘Coccole’ are very good soaked in milk for an even more flavourful breakfast. Also they keep well, for a few days, inside a sealed plastic or glass container. If you don’t like dates or simply prefer nuts, walnuts and almonds work well, as does chestnut flour, or anything you like really!

Step by step

Dough, sugar and milk
Dough, sugar and milk
**Click on the photos to access full step by step!

Additional information

Cuddles with dark chocolate and dates

One of the most delicious variations of Cuddles is definitely the one that includes dark chocolate and dates. This preparation enriches the sweet treat with intense flavors and natural sweetness. To make this version, simply add pieces of dark chocolate and chopped dates to the ricotta and sugar mixture. The result will be a soft, moist dessert with a delightful center. Perfect for a snack or a dessert, Cuddles with dark chocolate and dates can also be served dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. If you want an alternative that will surprise your guests, try using white chocolate for a surprising flavor combination.

Molisana Cuddles with traditional ingredients

Cuddles are a typical dessert from Molise, and the regional variant involves the use of fresh and genuine ingredients. This preparation stands out for its simplicity and authentic flavor. The main ingredients, such as ricotta and flour, are often locally produced, which gives the dessert a unique taste. To make Molisana Cuddles, you can opt to add flavors like lemon zest or vanilla essence, which enhance the freshness of the ricotta. This dessert is perfect for enjoying during holidays or as a snack at any time of the day. Cuddles, thanks to their versatility, can be customized based on personal tastes and family traditions.

Light Cuddles without added sugar

For those who want a lighter version of Cuddles, it is possible to prepare them without added sugar. By using ricotta and dates as natural sweeteners, you achieve a dessert that maintains its softness and flavor without the addition of refined sugars. It is advisable to also reduce the amount of oil, replacing it with low-fat yogurt, to make the recipe even lighter. Light Cuddles are ideal for those on a low-calorie diet or for anyone who simply wants to indulge in a dessert without guilt. Additionally, this variant can be enriched with fresh fruit or dried fruit to increase nutritional value and provide further health benefits.

Benefits of Cuddles: ricotta and approximate calories

Ricotta, the main ingredient of Cuddles, is a fresh and light cheese, rich in protein and low in fat. It also contains calcium and phosphorus, essential nutrients for bone health. Furthermore, ricotta is easily digestible and can be included in various dietary plans. Cuddles, made with ricotta, provide about 220 calories per serving, depending on the variations and ingredients used. This dessert, when consumed in moderation, can be a great addition to a balanced diet. Choosing fresh and quality ingredients, such as artisanal ricotta, helps maintain the nutritional benefits of this traditional dessert.

Can Cuddles be frozen?

Yes, Cuddles can be frozen to prolong their freshness. It is advisable to do so after they have completely cooled. To freeze them, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a food bag or airtight container. This way, you will avoid frost formation and maintain their softness. When you want to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven. This practice is particularly useful for those who want to prepare Cuddles in advance and have them ready for special occasions or for a quick snack during the week.