Roman maritozzi are a delicious and indulgent treat that originated in Rome, Italy. These sweet brioche-like buns are filled with whipped cream and often topped with a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar, making them the perfect dessert or sweet snack. While they may seem intimidating to make at home, with the right recipe and technique, you can easily recreate these delectable treats in your own kitchen. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make your own Roman maritozzi!
First, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. For the buns, you will need 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 packet of active dry yeast, 1/2 cup of warm milk, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. For the filling, you will need 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, 1/4 cup of confectioners’ sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. You can also add raisins or candied orange peel to the filling for an extra burst of flavor.
To begin, mix the flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Then, add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix everything together until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, and if it’s too dry, add a splash of milk.
Next, transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. If you’re adding raisins or candied orange peel, fold them into the whipped cream.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it with your hands. Place a spoonful of the whipped cream filling in the center of the dough and then fold the edges over to seal the filling inside. Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the maritozzi for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Once they’re done, let them cool for a few minutes before dusting them with confectioners’ sugar.
And there you have it, your very own homemade Roman maritozzi! These brioche-like buns are best served warm, so make sure to enjoy them fresh out of the oven. The combination of the soft and fluffy bun with the creamy filling is simply irresistible. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as Nutella or jam, to create your own unique version of this traditional treat.
In addition to being a delicious dessert, maritozzi are also a popular breakfast item in Rome. They are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or cappuccino, making for a perfect start to the day. So, why not surprise your family and friends with a batch of freshly baked maritozzi for breakfast or as a sweet treat after dinner?
In conclusion, making your own Roman maritozzi may seem like a daunting task, but with the right recipe and a little bit of patience, you can easily recreate these delightful buns at home. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and get ready to indulge in the heavenly combination of brioche and whipped cream. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!
