How to Make Baci di Dama (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Baci di Dama, meaning 'Lady’s Kisses,' are delicate hazelnut and chocolate sandwich cookies from the heart of Piemonte, Italy. Crafted since the 19th century, these bite-sized desserts embody the elegance of Italian pastry, combining the region’s prized hazelnuts with rich dark chocolate. Their name comes from their unique shape, resembling two lips joined by a sweet kiss of chocolate. These Italian cookies offer a delightful crunch with a melt-in-the-mouth texture, making them a favorite at Italian coffee bars and festive gatherings. Baci di Dama are traditionally enjoyed with espresso or as a refined after-dinner treat. By leveraging the natural goodness of hazelnuts and a touch of whole wheat flour, this health-conscious recipe preserves authentic flavors while offering a lighter twist. Perfect for international food lovers seeking an authentic taste of Italy, these cookies are vegetarian, easy to prepare, and sure to impress at any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup Hazelnuts (nocciole Piemonte, toasted and skins removed)
- 1/2 cup Whole wheat flour (farina integrale)
- 1/4 cup Almond flour (farina di mandorle)
- 1/4 cup Unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup Powdered sugar (zucchero a velo)
- 40g (about 1.5 oz) Dark chocolate (minimum 70% cacao)
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
- pinch Salt
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F)
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Pulse the toasted hazelnuts in a food processor until finely ground.
Step 2 · In a mixing bowl
In a mixing bowl, combine ground hazelnuts, whole wheat flour, almond flour (if using), and salt. Mix well.
Step 3 · Add softened butter
Add softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms. Avoid overworking the dough.
Step 4 · Divide dough into small pieces and roll into 1
Divide dough into small pieces and roll into 1.5cm balls. Place on the baking tray, leaving space between each.
Step 5 · Bake for 15-18 minutes until lightly golden but not browned
Bake for 15-18 minutes until lightly golden but not browned. Let cool completely on the tray.
Step 6 · Melt dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water
Melt dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Cool slightly until thickened.
Step 7 · Pair cookies of similar size
Pair cookies of similar size. Spread a small amount of melted chocolate on the flat side of one cookie, then gently press another on top. Allow chocolate to set.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy Baci di Dama recipe swaps refined flour for whole wheat and reduces added sugars, making it a lighter dessert option. Hazelnuts provide good fats and essential nutrients, while dark chocolate contains less sugar and more antioxidants than milk chocolate. These mindful substitutions preserve the authentic taste of the Italian classic while supporting better nutrition, perfect for those tracking calories or seeking wholesome sweets.
A note on tradition
Baci di Dama are a treasured specialty of Piemonte, especially in the city of Tortona. Traditionally crafted during autumn hazelnut harvests, they reflect the region’s artisanal pastry-making heritage. These cookies are often prepared for festive occasions, family gatherings, and as elegant gifts. Their romantic name and signature kiss shape make them a symbol of Italian culinary charm, served in local cafés and patisseries across Italy.