The secrets of Piedmontese baci di dama revealed

What are Piedmontese baci di dama?

Baci di dama are typical Piedmontese sweets, originating from the city of Tortona, in the province of Alessandria. They consist of two small almond shortbread cookies, joined by a delicious layer of dark chocolate. Their name derives from their appearance: they look like two lips coming together in a sweet kiss.

What is the origin of baci di dama?

Baci di dama were born in the mid-1800s in Tortona. Initially, they were made with hazelnut flour, which was cheaper and more readily available than almond flour. Only later, with the arrival of more refined ingredients, did the almond version spread, which then became the most well-known and appreciated.

Why are they called "baci di dama"?

The romantic name of these cookies is inspired by their appearance. The two shortbread halves, joined by dark chocolate, resemble two lips brushing against each other to give a kiss. A legend says they were created to conquer the most refined palates of the Piedmontese nobility, with a touch of elegance and sweetness.

What are the traditional ingredients of baci di dama?

The original Piedmontese recipe for baci di dama includes a few simple but high-quality ingredients: butter, sugar, all-purpose flour, almond flour, and dark chocolate for filling. Their goodness greatly depends on the quality of the butter and the freshness of the almonds used.

How to prepare the real Piedmontese baci di dama?

Preparing baci di dama is simpler than it seems, but you must follow some fundamental rules. First of all, it is important to keep the temperatures low during processing and carefully follow the resting times.

1. Work the soft butter in cubes with sugar, flour, and almond flour until you obtain a compact dough.

2. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 2 hours.

3. Then form small balls of about 3-4 grams each and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

4. Put the tray in the freezer for about an hour: this step will help the cookies maintain their characteristic dome shape.

5. Bake the baci di dama in a static oven at 140°C for about 15-17 minutes, until they are golden but not too dark.

6. Once cooled, melt the dark chocolate in a bain-marie and join two cookies together flat side to flat side.

What mistakes to avoid when preparing baci di dama?

One of the most common mistakes is not respecting the cooling times of the dough. If you do not let it rest enough in the fridge and freezer, the cookies risk flattening during baking. The oven temperature is also crucial: if too high, the cookies darken and lose their flakiness.

How long does it take to prepare baci di dama?

The total time is about 3 and a half hours: 2 hours of resting in the refrigerator, 1 hour in the freezer, and 15-17 minutes of baking. Although the preparation seems long, most of the time is just for cooling the dough, which is essential for achieving the perfect consistency.

Are there variations of baci di dama?

Yes, over the years many variations have emerged. The most famous are the baci di Alassio, made with hazelnuts, honey, and cocoa. There are also coconut versions, with two meringues instead of cookies, and even savory versions, perfect as an appetizer! However, the classic Piedmontese recipe with almonds remains the most loved.

Are baci di dama a gift idea?

Absolutely! Baci di dama are perfect as a gastronomic gift. You can pack them in a tin box or in a transparent bag with a colored ribbon. They are ideal for Valentine's Day, Christmas, or as a sweet thought to bring to friends and family.

How to store baci di dama?

Unfilled baci di dama can be perfectly stored for up to a week in a tin box or airtight container. If already filled, it is better to consume them within a few days. They can also be frozen, both with and without chocolate, for about a month.

What is the best pairing to enjoy baci di dama?

These cookies pair wonderfully with a fragrant black tea, an espresso coffee, or a small glass of sweet Piedmontese wine, such as Moscato d'Asti. They are also perfect as a dessert after a lunch or dinner, perhaps served alongside other typical Piedmontese sweets.

Where to taste the real baci di dama in Biella?

In Biella, you can taste the real baci di dama in these pastry shops and stores, all renowned for the quality of their artisanal production and the use of selected raw materials: In each of these sales points, you will find baci di dama prepared with the round gentle hazelnut and dark chocolate, with packaging ideal for gastronomic gifts. Many places also offer breakfasts, fresh pastries, and takeaway products.

Pasticceria Simone De Mori

A modern and welcoming place, known for traditional Piedmontese pastries and some creative proposals. The baci di dama are made with selected ingredients. It also offers takeaway sales and gift packaging.

Pasticceria Dolcemanna

A sweet corner in the center, offering various Piedmontese specialties and fresh pastries, including baci di dama. Family atmosphere and local ingredients, ideal for breakfast as well.

De Mori Punto Vendita Biella

Historic sales point of the famous pastry shop in Biella, appreciated for the high quality of desserts and gift packaging. Baci di dama are one of the specialties offered.

Romano Panetteria Pasticceria

Bakery with artisanal pastry, offers fragrant baci di dama, perfect to enjoy fresh. Also attentive to the choice of local raw materials.

Biscottificio Cervo

Specialized in the production of typical Piedmontese cookies, including baci di dama, also covered in chocolate. Simple and authentic atmosphere, ideal for direct purchase.

Pasticceria Cioccolateria Coggiola - Canestrelli, Coggiolini, Typical Biella products, Cakes

Local excellence and long tradition, this pastry shop offers a selection of baci di dama and other typical Biella sweets in various packages.

Pasticceria Massera Gino srl - Store Biella

Historic pastry shop, active since 1920, famous for traditional Piedmontese sweets, such as baci di dama prepared according to the true artisanal recipe.

Why do tourists love baci di dama?

Tourists visiting Piedmont are fascinated by the romantic history and delicate taste of baci di dama. They are a symbol of sweetness and tradition, perfect to take home as a souvenir or gastronomic gift. Each bite encapsulates a bit of Piedmontese culture and the elegance of its ancient pastry shops.

How to serve baci di dama during a trip to Piedmont?

During a stay in Piedmont, baci di dama can be enjoyed in many ways: with a cappuccino for breakfast, with afternoon tea, or as a dessert after a typical dinner. Many restaurants and cafes offer them as small pastries alongside espresso coffee.

Are baci di dama a symbol of Piedmont?

Yes, along with gianduiotti and krumiri, baci di dama represent one of the most famous sweet specialties of Piedmont. They are ambassadors of the region's pastry tradition and a pride for the city of Tortona, which has made them famous all over the world.