why make this recipe
Easy Italian Almond Cookies, or Amaretti, are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with rich flavor. These cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, they pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. Their light and chewy texture, combined with the fragrant almond flavor, makes them irresistible. Furthermore, with just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time!
how to make Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti)
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine almond flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy, then add almond extract and vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold the egg white mixture into the dry ingredients until a sticky dough forms.
- Using your hands, form small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly and dust with powdered sugar.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden and have a crisp exterior.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea!
how to serve Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti)
These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, either on their own or as part of a dessert platter. Serve them alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. You can also use them in desserts like ice cream sandwiches or as a topping for yogurt.
how to store Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti)
To keep your almond cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay good for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for proper storage.
tips to make Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti)
- Make sure to whisk the egg whites until they are frothy to achieve the best texture.
- Don’t be afraid to dust them generously with powdered sugar before baking; it adds a nice sweetness to the crust.
- If you want a chewier cookie, slightly underbake them.
variation
You can add a bit of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate twist or mix in some finely chopped dark chocolate for added richness. Additionally, feel free to try different extracts, like orange or lemon, for a unique flavor.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
No, almond flour is key to achieving the right texture and flavor for these cookies.
What if I want to make these cookies gluten-free?
These cookies are naturally gluten-free because they use almond flour. They are perfect for anyone avoiding gluten!
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas). Use about 1/4 cup of aquafaba, whisk it until frothy, and follow the rest of the recipe as usual.
Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Delightful Italian Almond Cookies that are chewy, fragrant, and perfect with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine almond flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy, then add almond extract and vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold the egg white mixture into the dry ingredients until a sticky dough forms.
- Using your hands, form small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly and dust with powdered sugar.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden and have a crisp exterior.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Whisk egg whites until frothy for best texture. Dust generously with powdered sugar before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian