Discover how to make Pastiċċini, delightful small pastries that are perfect for any occasion. These Italian treats are filled with either creamy custard or sweet jam, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. Our easy-to-follow recipe ensures you can create these delectable pastries at home, impressing your family and friends with your baking skills.

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

 - 2 cups all-purpose flour

 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar

 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

 - 1 large egg

 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Custard Filling:

 - 1 cup whole milk

 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar

 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch

 - 1 large egg yolk

 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Jam Filling:

 - 1/2 cup fruit jam (strawberry, apricot, or your choice)

Instructions:

Prepare the Pastry Dough:

 - In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

 - Beat the egg and vanilla extract together, then add to the flour mixture. Mix until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

 - Make the Custard Filling:

 - In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam.

 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolk until smooth.

 - Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens.

 - Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool.

 - Assemble the Pastiċċini:

 - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

 - Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into small circles using a cookie cutter or glass.

 - Place half of the dough circles on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon a small amount of custard or jam into the center of each circle. Top with the remaining dough circles and press the edges to seal.

 - Use a fork to crimp the edges and make small slits on top to allow steam to escape.

 - Bake:

 - Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

 - Allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy these delightful Pastiċċini with a cup of coffee or tea!

Nutritional Values:

All-Purpose Flour (2 cups):

 - Calories: 910

 - Carbohydrates: 190 g

 - Protein: 24 g

 - Fat: 2 g

 - Fiber: 6 g

Benefits:

 - Provides essential carbohydrates for energy.

 - Contains small amounts of protein and fiber, though not as rich in nutrients as whole grain flours.

Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup for pastry, 1/4 cup for custard):

 - Calories: 400

 - Carbohydrates: 100 g

 - Protein: 0 g

 - Fat: 0 g

Benefits:

 - Adds sweetness and energy. 

 - Best consumed in moderation as excessive sugar intake can lead to health issues like diabetes.

Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup):

 - Calories: 810

 - Fat: 92 g

 - Saturated Fat: 58 g

 - Carbohydrates: 0 g

 - Protein: 1 g

Benefits:

 - Provides essential fatty acids and vitamin A.

 - Adds flavor and improves the texture of pastries. 

 - Choose in moderation due to high saturated fat content.

Large Egg (1):

 - Calories: 70

 - Protein: 6 g

 - Fat: 5 g

 - Carbohydrates: 1 g

Benefits:

 - High-quality protein source.

 - Provides vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium.

Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon):

 - Calories: 6

 - Carbohydrates: 1 g

 - Fat: 0 g

 - Protein: 0 g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor with minimal calories.

 - Contains antioxidants which may have some health benefits.

Salt (1/4 teaspoon):

 - Sodium: 575 mg

Benefits:

 - Enhances flavor and can help in balancing the ingredients.

 - Excessive salt intake can lead to high blood pressure, so use in moderation.

Whole Milk (1 cup):

 - Calories: 150

 - Protein: 8 g

 - Fat: 8 g

 - Carbohydrates: 12 g

Benefits:

 - Good source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein.

 - Supports bone health and muscle function.

Cornstarch (1 tablespoon):

 - Calories: 30

 - Carbohydrates: 7 g

 - Protein: 0 g

 - Fat: 0 g

Benefits:

 - Thickens sauces and custards without adding significant calories or fat.

 - Provides a smooth texture.

Fruit Jam (1/2 cup):

 - Calories: 250

 - Carbohydrates: 65 g

 - Protein: 0 g

 - Fat: 0 g

Benefits:

 - Adds natural fruit flavor and sweetness.

 - Contains vitamins and antioxidants from fruit, though high in sugar.

Summary:

Each ingredient contributes to the overall nutritional profile of the Pastiċċini, offering energy, flavor, and texture. For a balanced diet, enjoy these pastries in moderation and pair them with a variety of nutrient-rich foods.