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#### **Instructions:**
**Step 1: Prepare the Dough**
1. Start by creaming the softened **butter** and **sugar** together in a large mixing bowl. Mix until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
2. Add the **egg** and **vanilla extract**, continuing to mix until fully incorporated.
3. Gradually add the **flour** and **salt**, mixing until the dough forms a soft, non-sticky consistency. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about **30 minutes**. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and roll out.
**Step 2: Roll Out the Dough**
1. Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and divide it into two portions for easier handling.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough into a thin rectangle, about **¼ inch thick**. Aim for a size that’s large enough to be sliced into swirls later—approximately **9 x 12 inches**.
**Step 3: Add the Filling**
1. Spread a thin layer of your chosen **filling** over the dough. You can use **jam, fruit preserves**, or **chocolate spread**—whatever you prefer. Be sure not to add too much filling to prevent it from oozing out while baking.
2. Gently roll the dough into a log shape, starting from one edge and rolling towards the other. If the dough starts to tear, don’t worry—simply patch it up as you go.
**Step 4: Slice and Arrange**
1. Slice the rolled dough into approximately **½-inch slices**. These slices should form the classic Girandola swirl pattern.
2. Place the cookie slices onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a small amount of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
**Step 5: Egg Wash and Baking**
1. Lightly beat the second **egg** and brush the tops of the cookie swirls with the egg wash to give them a shiny, golden finish.
2. Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at **350°F (175°C)** for **12-15 minutes**, or until they are lightly golden brown around the edges.
**Step 6: Cool and Serve**
1. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Once cooled, you can dust the cookies with a little **powdered sugar** for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
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### **Tips for Perfect Girandola Cookies**
– **Roll the dough thinly**: The thinner the dough, the more delicate and crispy the cookies will be. However, make sure not to roll the dough too thin that it tears easily.
– **Experiment with fillings**: While fruit jams and chocolate are classic, feel free to get creative! Consider using **hazelnut paste**, **cream cheese**, or even **pistachio paste** for unique flavor combinations.
– **Chill the dough**: Don’t skip the chilling process! Chilling the dough helps prevent it from becoming too soft or sticky and makes the rolling process much easier.
– **Store properly**: To maintain the freshness of the cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
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### **Conclusion: A Beautiful and Delicious Treat**
Girandola cookies are a perfect treat for anyone who loves baking and wants to impress their guests with both beauty and flavor. The combination of buttery, tender dough and sweet, flavorful fillings creates a balanced and delightful cookie. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just looking to try something new, these cookies will undoubtedly become a favorite.
So, gather your ingredients, get creative with fillings, and enjoy making—and eating—these gorgeous, delicious **Girandola cookies**!
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