Cenci

May 10, 2023May 10, 20230 2

Crispy Cenci recipe with a dusting of powdered sugar

by The Chefin Dessert

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Ready In

35 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

170

Sugar

Fat

Cenci are a traditional Tuscan dessert made during Carnival season, which is the period between Epiphany and Mardi Gras. These sweet and crispy treats are popular across Italy, particularly in Tuscany and Liguria, where they are known as bugie. The dough is simple and quick to make, and the cenci are usually shaped into knots or bowties, then deep-fried and dusted with confectioner's sugar. They are perfect as a dessert after a hearty meal or as an afternoon snack, and are often served with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Instructions

1.	In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and confectioner's sugar.
2.	In another bowl, combine the egg and rum, then pour into the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms.
3.	On a floured surface, roll out the dough as thin as possible, then cut into strips about 5-6 inches long and 1 inch wide.
4.	Cut a slit in the middle of each strip, then lift one end and thread it through the slit to create a knot.
5.	In a deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil to 375°F, then fry the cenci in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 1-2 minutes per side.
6.	Remove the cenci with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7.	Once completely cooled, dust the cenci with confectioner's sugar before serving.

PROS

These cenci are crispy, sweet and addictive, making for a delicious dessert that is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

CONS

This dessert is not particularly healthy, given that it is deep-fried and coated in sugar.

It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While cenci are not a particularly healthy dessert, they can be enjoyed as a treat.
In moderation, cenci can provide a quick boost of energy thanks to the high carbohydrate content from the flour and sugar.

	1 1/4 cups flour
	1/2 teaspoon baking powder
	1 pinch salt
	2 tablespoons confectioners ' sugar
	1 egg , beaten
	1 1/2 tablespoons rum
	vegetable oil ( for deep-frying )
	confectioners ' sugar , for dusting