Description
Zézettes de Sète
Ces biscuits légers et croquants sont une invitation à la gourmandise. À essayer absolument!
Ingrédients:
500 g de farine
160 g de sucre roux
1 sachet de sucre vanillé
125 ml d’huile d’olive douce
125 ml de vin blanc sec
Instructions:
Préchauffez le four à 175°C.
Mélangez farine, sucre et sucre vanillé.
Ajoutez l’huile et le vin blanc, et pétrissez.
Façonnez des bâtonnets et roulez-les dans un peu de sucre.
Faites cuire 15-18 minutes.
#ZézettesCroustillantes
Step-by-Step Guide
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 500g of flour, 160g of brown sugar, and one packet of vanilla sugar. Whisk these dry ingredients together until fully incorporated.
2. Create a well in the center of the dry mixture. Pour in 125ml of mild olive oil and 125ml of dry white wine.
3. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a crumbly dough begins to form. Then, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 2-3 minutes until the dough is smooth and homogenous. It should be soft but not sticky.
4. Pinch off small pieces of dough (about the size of a walnut) and roll them between your palms into small logs or batons, approximately 5cm long.
5. Roll each baton lightly in granulated sugar to coat it completely.
6. Place the sugared batons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them as they will spread slightly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn a light golden brown. The centers should remain pale.
8. Let the biscuits cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will crisp up as they cool.
Serving Suggestions
Zézettes are traditionally enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a more indulgent experience, serve them alongside a glass of sweet dessert wine, like Muscat de Frontignan, which complements their subtle sweetness. They also make a delightful accompaniment to fruit sorbets or a simple bowl of fresh berries.
How-to Summary
Mix dry ingredients, incorporate wet ingredients (olive oil and white wine) to form a dough, shape into small logs, roll in sugar, and bake at 175°C for 15-18 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely to achieve the perfect crisp texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of oil?
While mild olive oil is traditional and gives an authentic flavor, a neutral oil like sunflower or grapeseed can be used. The olive oil adds a distinct, subtle fruitiness.
My dough is too dry. What should I do?
Flour absorbency varies. If the dough won’t come together, add a teaspoon of white wine at a time until it is pliable. Avoid making it wet or sticky.
How should I store Zézettes?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They are best enjoyed within a few days for maximum crispness.
Why didn’t my biscuits get crispy?
This is usually due to under-baking or not letting them cool completely on a wire rack. The cooling process is crucial for them to crisp up.
Can I add flavor variations?
Absolutely! While classic, you can add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dry ingredients, or a pinch of aniseed for a traditional Provençal twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-kneading the dough: This can develop gluten and make the biscuits tough. Knead just until smooth.
- Using a strong, peppery olive oil: It will overpower the delicate flavor. Always opt for a mild, fruity variety.
- Baking on a dark baking sheet or greased pan: This can cause the bottoms to brown too quickly. Always use parchment paper on a light-colored sheet.
- Placing them on the rack while still warm: Trapped steam will make them soft. Let them cool fully on the baking sheet first.
Conclusion
Mastering Zézettes de Sète is about embracing simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create these irresistibly light and crunchy biscuits that capture the essence of the Mediterranean. Their subtle sweetness and unique texture make them a timeless treat. Follow this guide, avoid the common pitfalls, and you’ll be rewarded with a perfect batch of these iconic French delights. #ZézettesCroustillantes