Amaretti Cookies Recipe
If you are looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances chewy texture with a light, nutty sweetness, this Amaretti Cookies Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These charming little almond cookies are irresistibly soft on the inside with a gently crisp exterior, all enhanced by a hint of lemon zest and the fragrant warmth of almond extract. Once you try this Amaretti Cookies Recipe, you’ll see why it’s a classic in Italian baking and such a comforting choice to enjoy with coffee, tea, or just on their own as a sweet bite throughout the day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The brilliance of this Amaretti Cookies Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient works harmoniously to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture, from the finely ground almond flour that provides that signature nuttiness, to the fresh lemon zest that brightens every bite. Simple staples with a hint of elegance make these cookies a joy to bake and share.
- Almond flour: This finely ground almond flour is the heart of the cookie, offering a delicate nutty flavor and tender crumb.
- Sugar: Both the 1 cup mixed into the dough and the ¼ cup used for rolling add the ideal sweetness and a slight crispness to the cookie surface.
- Lemon zest: Just one tablespoon adds a vibrant pop of citrus that beautifully complements the almonds.
- Egg whites: Whipped to soft peaks, they create the light, airy texture that makes these cookies so delightfully chewy.
- Almond extract: Enhances the almond flavor, giving these cookies an authentic and aromatic finish.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and helps your cookies bake evenly on the sheets.
How to Make Amaretti Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 325°F, which is the perfect gentle heat to bake these cookies evenly without browning them too quickly. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to keep your Amaretti cookies from sticking and ensure easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, 1 cup of sugar, and lemon zest. This mixture forms the flavor-packed base of your dough, with the lemon zest adding a fresh aroma that will shine through in every bite.
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they reach soft peaks—a step that creates the light and airy foundation of the cookie’s texture. Once soft peaks form, gently stir in the almond extract to infuse even more nutty goodness into the whites.
Step 4: Fold Ingredients Together
Now it’s time for the magic—carefully folding the whipped egg whites into the dry mixture. Take your time to fold gently until the mixture is moist and combined, ensuring you keep as much air in the batter as possible for that signature chewy bite.
Step 5: Shape and Sugar-Coat the Cookies
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion out equal amounts of dough. Roll each portion into a ball with your slightly damp hands, then roll the balls through the remaining ¼ cup of sugar for a beautiful sparkling finish and a bit of crunch on the outside.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Arrange your cookie balls on the parchment-lined sheets, leaving enough space between to allow for a little spreading. Bake for 25 minutes until they start to turn a lovely golden shade around the edges and on the bottoms. Cool completely on wire racks—this step ensures they finish setting perfectly with just the right balance of crispy and chewy textures.
How to Serve Amaretti Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are delicious on their own, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness and a charming look. Alternatively, a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of crushed toasted almonds adds an elegant touch for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Amaretti cookies pair incredibly well with hot beverages—consider serving them alongside a steaming cup of espresso, cappuccino, or a fragrant chai tea. They also complement creamy desserts like panna cotta or gelato, providing a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try sandwiching two amaretti cookies together with a spread of Nutella, lemon curd, or vanilla buttercream. You can also crumble them over yogurt or ice cream as a crunchy topping that adds almond flavor and a little sweetness in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Amaretti cookies, keep them stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to a week, maintaining that perfect chewy texture without becoming too soft or brittle.
Freezing
To freeze your Amaretti Cookies Recipe, place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months—just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy the sweet almond goodness again.
Reheating
If you want to warm up the cookies, a quick 5-7 seconds in the microwave or a few minutes in a preheated 300°F oven will bring back their freshly baked aroma and a slight crispness that feels just like you made them moments ago.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
Almond flour is essential for the authentic texture and flavor of Amaretti cookies. Using regular flour will result in a different texture, losing the signature chewiness and nutty taste that make these cookies special.
Why are the egg whites beaten to soft peaks?
Beating the egg whites to soft peaks incorporates air into the batter, which lightens the texture and gives the cookies their delicate, chewy interior while helping them rise slightly.
Can I use other flavor extracts instead of almond extract?
Almond extract is key to achieving the classic flavor, but you can experiment with vanilla or orange extracts for a different twist. Just keep in mind it will change the traditional taste profile.
How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?
Rolling the dough balls with slightly damp hands and chilling the dough briefly before baking can help control spreading. Also, baking at the recommended 325°F allows even cooking without excessive spreading.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Since this Amaretti Cookies Recipe uses almond flour instead of wheat flour, it is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
This Amaretti Cookies Recipe is an absolute gem to add to your baking repertoire. From the fragrant lemon zest to the irresistible chewy texture, every bite feels like a comforting embrace. Whether you bake them for a special occasion or just to brighten your afternoon with a sweet treat, I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself baking these delightful cookies again and again!
Print
Amaretti Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Amaretti Cookies are delicate, chewy almond-flavored cookies with a crisp exterior and a soft, moist center. Perfectly sweetened and lightly scented with lemon zest and almond extract, they offer a classic Italian treat that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ⅔ cups almond flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
For Rolling
- ¼ cup sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, 1 cup of sugar, and lemon zest until well combined and evenly distributed.
- Prepare Egg Whites: In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Then, gently whisk in the almond extract to incorporate flavor.
- Fold Ingredients: Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the dry ingredients, blending until the dough becomes moist and slightly sticky, ensuring not to deflate the whipped egg whites.
- Form Cookies: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion out equal amounts of dough. Roll each portion into a ball using slightly damp hands to prevent sticking. Then, roll each ball through the remaining ¼ cup of sugar to coat the outside.
- Bake and Cool: Arrange the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets spaced evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the cookies begin to turn lightly golden on top and the bottoms have browned. Remove from oven and cool the cookies completely on wire racks before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use blanched almond flour to achieve a fine texture.
- Make sure the mixing bowl and beaters are clean and free of any grease before whipping egg whites to ensure proper volume.
- Dampening your hands lightly before rolling helps prevent dough from sticking and creates smooth cookie balls.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- These cookies freeze well; thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
