It's spring, that means flowers. (Determining!) But for some bakers, adding flowers to their spring baking means something else entirely—it means baking with Sicilian flowers.
What exactly IS Sicilian flowers?
This powerful ingredient, which translates to “flowers of Sicily”, is a special blend of essential oils with a unique flavor profile: an ethereal blend of citrus, vanilla and floral notes. It's sourced in Italy, and the exact blend of oils is kept a secret, adding to its intrigue – and may explain why it has an elusive scent you can't quite put your finger on. But that delicate floral scent, which some bakers liken to an orange cream, lends a Sicilian sunshine to everything it touches. And it is especially suitable for spring baking.
Photography by Danielle Sykes; Food Styling by Liz Neily
How to use it in your Easter cakes…
Baking for Easter? it Easter Bread Wreath, slightly sweet and enriched with butter and egg, is perfumed with orange peel, aniseed and Fiori di Sicilia to capture the essential flavor of its Italian inspiration. Braided and finished with sprinkles and a decorative glaze, it's sure to be the star of your morning spread.
Or, for something to finish off a big meal, Ricotta Pie it's a classic. Think of it as a refined version of cheesecake: Ricotta replaces the cream cheese, almonds are included in the graham cracker crust, and of course, Fiori di Sicilia brings its citrus essence.
Food photography and styling by Liz Neily
As flower buds look through the earth, carrot cake on the table is another sure sign of spring. Replace vanilla extract in Fiori di Sicilia Carrot Cake Cream Cheese and introduce an unexpected citrus kick. You'll be surprised at the big impact it has—bakers love the unique flavor it adds, and many report it keeps people guessing as to what the secret ingredient is.
… and for all your spring baking needs
The combination of Fiori di Sicilia with creamy cheese such as ricotta and mascarpone it's a natural fit—especially when you consider their shared Italian roots. When you eat the cannoli, expect a hint of orange peel amid the rich ricotta filling and flecks of chocolate chips. In our mix Cannoli CheesecakeFiori di Sicilia amplifies those subtle citrus notes, bringing more intrigue than simple orange peel.
Similarly, Fiori allows simple ingredients in this Lemon ricotta cake to really sing. Lemon zest, ricotta cheese, and vanilla are a seamless trio of flavors, but the final addition of Fiori di Sicilia gives this whole cake a sophisticated dimension. Similarly, Fiori di Sicilia complements the finer flavors of this Raspberry Lemon Tartwith an added dash of both the cake itself and its icing.
Photography by Rick Holbrook; Food Styling by Kaitlin Wayne
Fiori di Sicilia can also elevate simple things into something more refined and multidimensional. Even just adding a few drops to a simple confectioners' sugar glaze can take that one-note sweetness into more complex territory—like whole wheat flakes. Or, use Fiori to grow this plushie Everyday cake with olive oil and complement the grassy flavor of a high-quality oil.
Caution: There can be a very good thing
Like vanilla, Fiori provides a background note to your baked goods. But different from vanilla, should be used sparingly. While some bakers like to “measure by heart” when it comes to vanilla extract, moderation is key with Fiori di Sicilia. Since it's a concentrated blend of essential oils, it's pungent—so if you're adding it to a recipe that doesn't already call for it, start with a few drops and work your way up to 1/4 teaspoon.
It's hard to figure out exactly what Fiori di Sicilia tastes like. But this is even more reason for it pick up a bottle and find out – there really isn't anything else like it.
Cover picture (Easter Bread Wreath) by Kristin Teig; food styling by Liz Neily.
From March 21st to March 25th, take 20% off our 16oz and 4oz Vanilla Extract Sicilian flowers!
