How to make “Maltese traditional” figolli

The tradition of “Figolli”, goes back to ancient times, thousands of years back …. and it is assumed to have originated in Sicily, Italy.  Its roots can be traced back to pagan history but more recently, they are a traditional post-lent snack and are often given to children as an Easter gift… They generally come in the shape of rabbits, butterflies, or Easter eggs, but you can also find them shaped like men and women. They are a mouth-watering mixture of biscuit, marzipan and icing, with a moist soft almond paste in the centre and are finished off with icing or chocolate coating and a chocolate egg on top!

Many housewives still enjoy making delicious “figolli”, in the company of young children who draw their favorite shapes on cardboard or use ready made shape templates about 20cm to 25cm long but You can also buy these everywhere around this time of the year, from supermarkets, bakeries, confectionaries, and other food shops and they are a must try for anyone visiting the islands.