Biscotti Regina Are Sicily’s Beloved Sesame Seed Cookies

Biscotti Regina truly stand out as a Sicilian treasure! These cookies carry a rich backstory that deeply connects to the island’s culture. With every bite, you can taste the influence of the Arabs, Greeks, and Spaniards who shaped their creation. In a way, they offer a small history lesson wrapped in sweetness.

The golden sesame seed coating is simply fantastic! The nutty crunch instantly elevates the whole experience. Interestingly, “Regina” means “queen” in Italian, which hints at their royal heritage. Just picture these cookies served at lavish banquets or joyous celebrations long ago. Pretty fascinating, right?

What makes them even more special is how they use just a handful of simple ingredients, flour, sugar, and either lard or butter. It’s amazing how everyday pantry staples come together to create something so memorable.

Even today, Biscotti Regina remain a beloved treat. You’ll often find people enjoying them alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea, whether in Italy or Italian American homes. Ultimately, they offer a sweet slice of tradition that continues to bring people together.

Traditional Biscotti Regina Ingredients:

All-purpose flour – the base of the dough.
Sugar – for sweetness (not overly sweet).
Lard or butter – traditionally lard was used, but butter is more common today.
Eggs – to bind the dough and add richness.
Milk or water – to moisten the dough, depending on the recipe.
Baking powder – for a slight lift (optional in some traditional versions).
Vanilla extract or lemon zest – for a touch of aroma and flavor (varies by region or family recipe).
Salt – to balance the flavors.
Toasted sesame seeds – for coating the cookies before baking, giving them their signature crunch and nutty flavor.

Biscotti Regina (Sesame Cookies)
Biscotti Regina cookies, also known as Sicilian Sesame Cookies, come from Sicily and have quickly earned their reputation as a delectable delight. They feature a generous coating of sesame seeds, which adds a satisfying crunch and a distinctive, nutty flavor. Once you savor their irresistible taste, you’ll soon understand why so many people favor these cookies. At first glance, Biscotti Regina may seem simple, but their true charm shines through in the perfect balance between modest ingredients and bold flavor. By using everyday pantry staples, these traditional Sicilian treats transform into something quietly elegant, nutty, subtly sweet, and perfectly crisp.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 36 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
  • ⅔ cup (130g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces (or traditional lard)
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp milk (plus more if needed)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (or 1 tsp lemon zest for a citrus twist)
  • 1 cup (100g) raw sesame seeds, for coating
  • ¼ cup water, for dipping cookies before sesame coating

Instructions
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
    Add the butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingers or a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract (or lemon zest). Add to the flour-butter mixture and mix until a dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a splash more milk.
  4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead just until smooth. Divide into 3 equal portions, then roll each into a long rope about ¾ inch thick.
    Cut each rope into ~12 pieces, about 2 inches long.
    Dip each cookie briefly in a shallow bowl of water, then roll in sesame seeds until fully coated.
  5. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
    Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cookies are golden and the sesame seeds are lightly toasted.
  6. Let cool on a wire rack. They’ll firm up as they cool.

Notes

Water Dip: Before rolling the cookies in sesame seeds, a quick dip in water helps the seeds stick and promotes even browning in the oven. Don’t soak, just a light dip!
Toast the Sesame Seeds (Optional, but Flavorful): If you want an extra layer of nutty flavor, lightly toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan for a few minutes before coating the cookies. Let them cool before using.
Chill the Dough: If the dough feels sticky or soft, pop it in the fridge for 20–30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll and cut into uniform pieces.
Serving

Serving Biscotti Regina embraces simplicity and tradition. You’ll find these lightly sweet, sesame-coated cookies taste best alongside a hot espresso, cappuccino, or a strong cup of black tea. For an authentic Sicilian experience, try pairing them with a glass of dessert wine like Marsala or Vin Santo. Moreover, Biscotti Regina add a beautiful touch to holiday cookie platters, wedding dessert tables, or homemade Italian cookie gift boxes. Thanks to their unique texture and toasty flavor, they make a perfect choice for any occasion.

Storage

Storing is simple and ensures their crisp texture and toasty sesame flavor stay fresh for days. After the cookies have completely cooled, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 10–14 days. For longer storage, Biscotti Regina can also be frozen up to 3 months, just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can make them stale faster.