Ingredients

For the Dough

500 grams all-purpose flour (about 4 cups)
200 grams water (about 0.8 cups)
75 grams sugar (about 0.4 cups)
50 grams unsalted butter, softened (about 0.5 cups)
7 grams instant yeast (about 2 teaspoons)
10 grams salt (about 2 teaspoons)
We recommend:

For the Filling

250 grams mascarpone cheese (about 1 cup)
100 grams heavy cream (about 0.4 cups)
50 grams powdered sugar (about 0.2 cups)
300 grams fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 3 cups)

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, instant yeast, and salt. In another bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and softened butter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and stretchy. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2

Shape the Maritozzo

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round ball and place them on a lined baking sheet. Cover them with a cloth and let them rest for another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 3

Bake the Buns

After resting, bake the masuccini in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Allow them to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Step 4

Prepare the Filling

While the dough bakes, whisk together the mascarpone cheese and heavy cream in a bowl until it is smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and keep whisking until well combined.

Once the buns have cooled, slice them in half horizontally but do not cut all the way through.

Step 5

Assemble the Maritozzo

Generously fill the bottom half of each bun with the mascarpone mixture, then top it with sliced strawberries. Place the top half of the bun back on. Dust with extra powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy your delicious strawberry maritozzo with a cup of coffee or tea!

Servings

Serving suggestions are where the magic happens! 💖 When it comes to your Strawberry Maritozzo, a little creativity goes a long way. To start, consider **dusting the finished buns with powdered sugar** for that lovely café-style look. For an extra touch of flair, you could **garnish with mint leaves** or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a dash of elegance. 🌿✨

If you're hosting a picnic or a casual get-together, arrange the Maritozzi on a beautiful platter, surrounded by **fresh strawberries** and dollops of whipped cream. Let your guests come up and pick their favorites, adding a fun and interactive element to your gathering! 🍓🥳

Want to make it a dessert party? Pair these delightful pastries with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve them alongside **a cup of freshly brewed coffee**. It’s a match made in pastry heaven that will warm hearts and lift spirits! ☕💖

Equipment

Variations

If you're looking to tweak this recipe, you’re in luck! You can create a **gluten-free version** by substituting regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. Just make sure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum. 🌾✅

For those who follow a plant-based lifestyle, go ahead and use **vegan butter and coconut cream** to create a luscious filling. It’s equally delicious and options exist for everyone to enjoy a taste of this classic Italian treat! 🌱💚

Faq

  • Can I make the dough in advance?

    Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before, store it covered in the fridge, and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

  • Why is my dough not rising?

    Make sure your yeast is active and that your kitchen is warm enough for the dough to rise properly. If it's too cold, try placing it in a slightly warm oven.

  • What can I do if my whipped cream is too runny?

    If your whipped cream isn't thickening, try chilling your bowl and whisk before whipping, and make sure your cream is cold, too. Adding a bit of powdered sugar can help stabilize it.

  • How can I enhance the flavor of my strawberry filling?

    A splash of lemon juice or some vanilla extract can elevate the flavor of your strawberries. A touch of sugar can also help if your berries are tart.

  • What’s the best way to store leftover Maritozzi?

    Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge, and they should be good for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for a longer shelf life.

  • Can I add other fruits to the filling?

    Definitely! Feel free to mix in other seasonal fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches for a delightful fruit medley!

Nutrition facts

Delicious Strawberry Maritozzo Recipe for Everyone
Recipe Yield:12 servings
Calories:The calorie range per serving for the maritozzi with strawberries is approximately 180 to 220 calories.
Calories (Min - Max):180 - 220
Total Fat:7g
Saturated Fat:3g
Protein:4g
Total Carbohydrate:28g
Total Sugars:10g