Delicious Bigne Recipe: A Sweet Italian Delight
If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, Bigne is the perfect recipe to try! This delightful Italian pastry is essentially a cream puff, filled with rich cream and dusted with powdered sugar. Originating from the beautiful region of Piedmont in Italy, Bigne has become popular across the country and the world. They are often enjoyed during celebrations and special occasions, making them not just a dessert, but a part of Italian culture and tradition.
Bigne is loved for its light, airy texture and delicious filling. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or simply enjoying it on a sunny afternoon, these treats are sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. Let’s dive into making this scrumptious dessert!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup (for cream filling) |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup (for whipping) |
| Powdered sugar | For dusting |
Feel free to substitute butter with margarine if you’re looking for a dairy-free option!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Make the Dough: In a pot, combine 1/2 cup of water and 1/2 cup of butter. Bring to a boil.
- Add Flour: Once boiling, remove from heat and quickly stir in 1 cup of flour. Mix until a dough forms.
- Add Eggs: Let the dough cool for a few minutes. Then, add the 4 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the mixture is smooth.
- Shape the Pastries: Using a spoon or piping bag, place small dollops of dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; leave space between each.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the Bigne are golden brown.
- Prepare the Cream Filling: While baking, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tsp of vanilla extract until peaks form.
- Fill the Pastries: Once the Bigne have cooled, slice them open and fill them with the whipped cream.
- Dust with Sugar: Finally, dust the filled pastries with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 150 | 7% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Carbohydrates | 17g | 6% |
| Fats | 8g | 12% |
| Sugar | 5g | 5% |
| Sodium | 50mg | 2% |
Tips and Tricks
- Egg Temperature: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough.
- Don’t Open the Oven: Avoid opening the oven door while baking, as it can cause the pastries to collapse.
- Flavor Variations: You can add cocoa powder to the cream for a chocolate flavor or infuse the cream with citrus zest for something refreshing.
FAQs
What is Bigne?
Bigne are Italian cream puffs that are light, airy pastries filled with whipped cream.
Can I make Bigne in advance?
Yes, you can bake the pastries a day ahead and fill them just before serving to keep them fresh.
How do I store leftover Bigne?
Store any leftover filled Bigne in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh!
Can I freeze Bigne?
Yes, you can freeze unfilled Bigne. Once they are fully cooled, place them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What can I use as a filling instead of cream?
You can use custard, pastry cream, or even ice cream for a different twist on the classic recipe!
Why did my Bigne not rise?
If the dough is too wet or if you open the oven too soon, the Bigne may not rise properly.
Is it difficult to make Bigne?
Not at all! With the right steps, making Bigne can be fun and rewarding for any baker.
What should I pair with Bigne?
Bigne pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a sweet dessert wine for a delightful treat.
Can I make Bigne gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make gluten-free Bigne.
Now you’re ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious Bigne recipe! Enjoy this delightful Italian treat and happy baking!
