Ingredients

3 oranges , large & unblemished
1 1/2 cups water
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 1/2 cups water
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 quinces , large
2 cups dates , pitted and coarsely chopped
3/4 cup currants ( Zante , 4 ounces )
2 tablespoons currants ( Zante )
2 tablespoons orange zest , grated
1 tablespoon lemon zest , grated
1 cup pistachios , lightly toasted ( unsalted )
2 cups hazelnuts , well-toasted
2 cups almonds , well-toasted
2/3 cup flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons nutmeg , freshly grated ( from 1 1/2 nutmegs )
3/4 teaspoon coriander , freshly ground
3/4 teaspoon black pepper , freshly ground
3/4 teaspoon clove , ground
3/4 cup honey
1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup powdered sugar
Panforte with Candied Quince is a traditional Italian dessert that dates back to the 13th century. It is a fruitcake made with a mixture of nuts, dried fruits, and spices, and is particularly popular during the holiday season in Siena, Italy. This version of the dessert replaces the traditional candied citron with candied quince, which adds a lovely sweet and tangy flavor to the cake. Panforte, which literally means 'strong bread,' gets its name from the strong and bold flavors of the nuts and spices used to make it. The cake has a soft and chewy texture with a crispy top layer, making it a satisfying treat for those with a sweet tooth.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
2.Cut the oranges into thin slices and remove the seeds.
3.In a saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of water and 1 1/2 cups of sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
4.Add the orange slices to the saucepan and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove the slices and let them cool.
5.Cut the quince into thin slices and remove the core. Repeat steps 3-4 for the quince slices.
6.In a large mixing bowl, combine the candied orange slices, candied quince slices, chopped dates, currants, orange zest, lemon zest, pistachios, hazelnuts, almonds, flour, cocoa powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, coriander, black pepper, and clove. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
7.In another saucepan, combine the honey and granulated sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and pour over the nut and fruit mixture. Mix until all ingredients are coated.
8.Transfer the mixture to the prepared cake pan, pressing down firmly to form an even layer. Sprinkle the powdered sugar over the top of the mixture.
9.Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the panforte is set.
10.Cool the panforte in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11.Once cooled, dust with additional powdered sugar and slice into thin wedges. Serve and enjoy!

PROS

Panforte with Candied Quince is a delicious and versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee.

It is a great dessert option for special occasions and can be made ahead of time.

CONS

Panforte with Candied Quince is a high-calorie and high-sugar dessert that should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

The preparation of the recipe requires multiple steps and some expertise in baking.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Panforte with Candied Quince contains several nuts and dried fruits that are rich in essential vitamins and minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
Hazelnuts are also a good source of heart-healthy fats and antioxidants.
However, it is a high-calorie and high-sugar dessert that should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

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