Authentic Marseille Navettes with Orange Blossom

Transport yourself to the sun-drenched streets of Marseille with these delightful and traditional Navette biscuits. Infused with the subtle fragrance of orange blossom water, these crunchy treats are a beloved specialty from Provence and are a breeze to make at home. Experience the delicious crunch and citrus aroma that make Navettes a timeless classic.

Ingredients

🥚 2 eggs
🍬 200 g sugar
🥖 500 g flour
🫒 6 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
🍊 3 tablespoons orange blossom water
🍊 1 teaspoon natural orange extract or zest of one orange
🧂 A pinch of salt
🥛 Milk for brushing

Instructions

1- Prepare the Mixture:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and eggs. Beat them together until the mixture turns pale and fluffy. Using an electric mixer can make this step quicker and easier
• Add the salt, orange blossom water, and natural orange extract (or orange zest). Stir in the olive oil (or substitute with melted butter)

2- Form the Dough:

• Gradually add the flour to the wet mixture, mixing initially with a spatula. Once it becomes too difficult to mix with the spatula, use your hands to bring the dough together into a smooth ball
• Once formed, let the dough rest for one hour to allow the flavors to meld

3- Shape the Navettes:

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper
• Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces. Take each piece and roll it into a 4-inch long log using your palms
• Pinch the ends of each log and use a sharp knife to make a slit along the center, giving it the characteristic Navette shape
• Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking tray

4- Bake to Perfection:

• Brush the Navettes lightly with milk. This will help achieve a lovely golden color
• Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes, or until they are golden and crisp
• Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely before enjoying

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour resting)
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: Makes 16 Navettes
Equipment: Electric mixer, large mixing bowl, baking tray, parchment paper

Cooking Tips

• Ensure the dough is well-rested; this will deepen the orange blossom flavor
• Store in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness

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Authentic Marseille Navettes with Orange Blossom