Traditional Italian Carnival Sweets Chiacchiere

Chiacchiere di Carnevale, also known as “Carnival Chatter,” is a delightful Italian tradition during the Carnival season, crispy fried pastries made from a simple dough of flour, eggs, butter, and a hint of liqueur, typically Marsala wine or grappa. The dough is thinly rolled, cut into strips or rectangles, and deep-fried until golden and crispy.
Once fried, Chiacchiere are generously dusted with powdered sugar, giving them a sweet and delicate finish. The name “Chiacchiere,” meaning “chatter” or “gossip” in Italian, is derived from the noise these pastries make while cooking – a delightful, crispy chatter.
This delightful treat is famous throughout Italy during the Carnival season, which typically precedes the Lenten period. Carnival’s festive and indulgent nature makes Chiacchiere a symbol of the celebrations, and families often have their cherished recipes passed down through generations.
Your family’s original Chiacchiere recipe likely carries a unique touch and a special connection to your heritage. Sharing these delicious treats with loved ones during Carnival is a beautiful tradition, creating sweet memories beyond the delectable taste of the pastries.

Chiacchiere di Carnevale Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 300g Flour

• 75g Melted butter

• Pinch of salt

• 50g Sugar

• 60ml White Wine (a glass)

• 2 Eggs

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

• Frying oil

Directions:

• Combine the flour, melted butter, a pinch of salt, and sugar in a large mixing bowl.

• Add the white wine to the mixture gradually, stirring continuously.

• Incorporate the eggs into the mixture one at a time, ensuring each is well combined before adding the next.

• Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. If needed, add additional flour to prevent sticking.

• Cover the dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes to allow it to relax.

• Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it’s skinny. You can use a rolling pin for this.

• Cut the dough into strips or rectangles, as desired.

• Heat the frying oil in a deep pan or fryer.

• Fry the strips of dough until they turn golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even frying.

• Once fried, transfer the Chiacchiere to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

• Allow the pastries to cool slightly before generously dusting them with powdered sugar.

• Serve and enjoy these delicious Carnival treats!

Buon appetito!