Befanini are typical Epiphany desserts, tasty and cute to look at, to be prepared quickly and perfect for the Epiphany stocking.

These sweets are ideal as a traditional Epiphany gift or to put in a stocking. Even the taste of preparing these desserts as a family is different. It is one of the most special delicacies on the morning of January 6th at the breakfast table. It envelops the whole family with its scent and taste. They are tasty and adorable; they stay soft for days and can be eaten for breakfast or as a snack

Tuscany’s defining recipe is typical, particularly in Viareggio, Versilia and Lucca. Like all traditional recipes, this one can vary significantly from family to family and from area to area. The name also changes in some areas, and they are called Zanotti.

In the original betanin recipe, the characteristic coloured sprinkles were not used because they had yet to be invented, but they became their distinctive feature over time. Before the advent of the Befana stocking, these biscuits were given to children in baskets and later inside actual socks.

These desserts are traditional and can be mixed in a bowl quickly. As they cooks, their delicious aromas fill the house. Preparing biscuits at home to give colour to your parties is perfect for spending time together and having fun. These befanini will be delicious on your table, and even the children will be happy.

Let’s do it together; you will see that they will be excellent because they can be made in various ways! The idea is a nice mix of shapes and colours…

Ingredients

• 250 g flour
• 100 g sugar
• Half a sachet of baking powder
• Half a grated lemon peel
• 50 g butter
• coloured sprinkles
• two eggs
• one egg for brushing

Preparation of Befanini biscuits

For the Befanini Biscuits, place the flour and yeast sifted together in a bowl.

Add the lemon zest and melted butter, then mix until everything is combined.

Add the eggs one at a time and mix them well, allowing them to be absorbed by the dough.

Work the dough quickly on a pastry board, form a loaf, place it inside a plastic bag, and leave it in the fridge for 1 hour.

Take the dough and roll it out on a pastry board; make biscuits in various shapes using biscuit cutters as desired. Star-shaped, round, festooned etc.

Place the biscuits on a baking tray covered with paper, brush them with the beaten egg and add coloured sprinkles on top. Bake at 180° for approximately 12 minutes. Then let them cool and enjoy them.