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Large biscuits as big as the palm of a hand, crumbly and shaped like slightly flattened rings with an irregular hole in the center, are arranged on a white plate, next to the plate there is a glass of Vin Santo liquor on a wooden table.
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Val di Chiana Rings (Ciambellini della Val di Chiana)

Val di Chiana Rings are a delightful Italian treat, traditionally enjoyed dipped in wine or for a sweet start to the day with breakfast. These biscuit-like rings carry a hint of citrus and are baked to a golden perfection.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Ciambellini, Ciambellini Val di Chiana
Servings: 24 rings
Author: Guido Pasquariello

Equipment

  • Knife
  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Mixer
  • Grater
  • Spoon

Ingredients

  • 5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 9 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/3 cup Vin Santo or sweet dessert wine
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder

Instructions

  • Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined and fluffy.
    4 large eggs, 2 cups granulated sugar
  • Add Butter and Flavors: Mix in the softened butter, powdered sugar, and zest from both the orange and lemon until smooth.
    3 tablespoons powdered sugar, 9 tablespoons unsalted butter, Zest of 1 orange, Zest of 1 lemon
  • Optional Orange Juice: For a moister dough, you can mix in the juice of the orange, but remember to add a little extra flour to compensate.
  • Combine With Vin Santo: Gradually fold in the Vin Santo, then sift in the flour and baking powder, stirring gently to form a soft dough.
    5 cups all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup Vin Santo or sweet dessert wine, 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • Rest the Dough: Let the dough sit for 40 minutes. Once the dough is flattened, make small balls on the work surface, dip your finger in oil, poke it in the center of the ball, and spin quickly until you get a ring about 6 inches in diameter.
  • Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (static oven). Place the rings on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden color.

Notes

  • If the rings turn out hard after storing, follow the Italian tradition and make a luscious Zuppa Inglese with custard and Alchermes liqueur.
  • Enjoy your homemade Val di Chiana Rings with a glass of Vin Santo, or for a non-alcoholic option, dip them in orange juice or milk.