Amaretti Cookies

The scent of almond extract wafting through the air always takes me back to Nonna Emilia’s kitchen. Even though I grew up in Texas, my grandmother made sure we knew our Italian heritage, and one of her signature treats was Amaretti cookies. These delightful little almond-flavored cookies are crisp on the outside, chewy on the inside, and surprisingly easy to make. I’ve made this Amaretti cookie recipe dozens of times in my own kitchen, and it’s always a hit with my kids, even the picky one! With just a few simple ingredients and some careful steps, you’ll be baking a batch of these Italian gems in no time. You’ll get a foolproof recipe for perfectly textured Amaretti cookies that will transport you straight to Italy, even if you’re just in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

As a busy mom, I need recipes that are both delicious and manageable. This Amaretti cookie recipe fits the bill perfectly. Here’s why it works:

• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
• Quick to Make: From start to finish, you can have a batch of these ready in under an hour.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Rolling the cookies into balls is a great activity to get the kids involved.

Ingredients

• 3 cups almond flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar, for rolling

Ingredient Notes

Almond Flour: This is the key to the Amaretti’s signature texture. Make sure you use finely ground almond flour, not almond meal, for the best results.

Almond Extract: A good quality almond extract is essential for that authentic Amaretti flavor. Don’t skimp on this!

Egg Whites: Using room-temperature egg whites will help them whip up better, resulting in a lighter cookie. Let your eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, granulated sugar, and salt. This ensures that the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg whites with a fork until they are frothy. Add the almond extract to the egg whites. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms. It might seem a little dry at first, but keep mixing – it will come together.

Step 4: Chill the Dough. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the dough to firm up, making it easier to handle. I learned after testing this recipe several times that skipping this step results in cookies that spread too much.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies. Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, scoop out portions of the chilled dough and roll them into balls. The dough will still be a little sticky, but the powdered sugar will help. Roll each ball in the powdered sugar, coating it completely.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies. Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges and cracked on top. The cookies will still be slightly soft to the touch, but they will firm up as they cool.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They are best enjoyed once they are completely cool.

Storage & Meal Prep

Storage: Store the Amaretti cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: You can freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Make-Ahead: The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Substitutions & Variations

Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses almond flour.

Dairy-Free: This recipe is also dairy-free!

Lemon Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist. I haven’t personally tried this, but I think it would be delicious!

Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips for a chocolate almond treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my Amaretti cookies flat?

Flat Amaretti cookies are usually caused by not chilling the dough long enough or using too much liquid. Make sure you chill the dough for at least 30 minutes and measure your ingredients accurately.

Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour?

While you can use almond meal in a pinch, the texture will be different. Almond meal is coarser than almond flour, so the cookies may be a bit grainy. I recommend using almond flour for the best results.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges and cracked on top. They will still be slightly soft to the touch, but they will firm up as they cool.

Can I make this recipe without almond extract?

The almond extract is what gives Amaretti cookies their signature flavor. If you don’t have almond extract, you can try using vanilla extract, but the flavor will be different.

Are these cookies kid-friendly?

Absolutely! My kids love these cookies, and they are a great option for a special treat. Just be mindful of any almond allergies.

How do I store leftover Amaretti cookies?

Store leftover Amaretti cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. To maintain their crispness, avoid storing them in a humid environment.

Can I freeze Amaretti cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze Amaretti cookie dough. Roll the dough into balls, coat them in powdered sugar, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen cookie dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

These Amaretti cookies are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with:

• A cup of coffee or tea
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• A glass of Vin Santo (a traditional Italian dessert wine)

For a simple presentation, arrange the cookies on a pretty plate and dust them with a little extra powdered sugar.

So, there you have it – my go-to recipe for Amaretti cookies. I truly believe that food is a powerful connector, and these cookies are a delicious way to share a little piece of Italian tradition with your family. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! And if you’re looking for more family-friendly recipes, be sure to sign up for my newsletter at FamiliesRecipes.com. Happy baking, y’all!

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