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Italian Fig Cookies (Cuccidati)

Italian Fig Cookies (Cuccidati)

Cuccidati, also known as Italian Fig Cookies, are traditional Sicilian treats filled with a rich, spiced mixture of figs, raisins, nuts, and citrus zest. These homemade cookies feature a buttery pastry and a sweet glaze, making them perfect for the holidays or special occasions. Try this authentic Italian recipe for a taste of Sicily!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings 36 cookies
Calories 130 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Filling:
  • 14 oz 375g dried figs
  • 1 cup 150g dark raisins
  • ½ cup 65g hazelnuts
  • 1 cup 145g almonds
  • 1 cup 90g walnuts
  • Finely grated zest of 1 orange
  • Finely grated zest of 1 lemon
  • cup 100g marmalade
  • ¼ cup honey
  • cup sweet Marsala wine
  • 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • For the Dough:
  • 1 ¼ cups 10oz / 2½ sticks / 285g unsalted butter
  • cup 145g superfine white sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 egg yolk reserve the white for glaze
  • 3 ½ cups 440g all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • For the Glaze:
  • 1 large egg white
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cups powdered sugar sifted

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Filling:
  • Preheat oven to 350ºF (180ºC). Spread hazelnuts on a baking tray and toast for 10 minutes until fragrant. Remove and rub with a towel to remove skins.
  • On a separate baking sheet, toast almonds and walnuts for 10 minutes.
  • If figs are dry, cover them with boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry. Remove stems and cut in half.
  • Pulse hazelnuts, almonds, and walnuts in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
  • Add figs, raisins, orange and lemon zest, marmalade, honey, Marsala wine, and cinnamon. Process until finely chopped and a thick paste forms.
  • Cover and refrigerate overnight or up to 3 days.
  • Prepare the Dough:
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs and egg yolk, mixing until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  • Divide dough into two portions, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  • Assemble the Cookies:
  • Preheat oven to 350ºF (180ºC). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Roll out one portion of dough into a rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.
  • Spoon the fig filling along the center of the dough. Fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges.
  • Cut into 1-inch cookies and place on the baking sheet. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool completely.
  • Prepare the Glaze:
  • Whisk egg white and lemon juice until frothy. Gradually add powdered sugar, whisking until smooth.
  • Drizzle over cooled cookies and let set before serving.

Notes

  • Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
  • The filling improves in flavor after resting overnight.
  • For a festive touch, sprinkle with colored sugar or nonpareils.