Amigdalota – Almond Cookies

🍪 Amigdalota – Almond Cookies 🍪

What is it?
Amigdalota are delicious almond cookies that originate from Greece. These cookies are known for their delightful almond flavor and delicate, crumbly texture. They are often enjoyed as a sweet treat with coffee or tea and make for a perfect snack or dessert.

History:
The history of amigdalota dates back centuries in Greece, with almonds being a key ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine. These cookies have evolved over time, with variations found in different regions of Greece. They have become a beloved part of Greek culinary traditions, especially during festive occasions and celebrations.

Components:
The key components of amigdalota are:

• Almonds: Ground almonds or almond flour are the primary ingredient, providing the cookies with their distinctive flavor.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar is used to sweeten the cookies.
• Egg Whites: Egg whites are used to bind the ingredients and create a tender texture.
• Almond Extract: Almond extract enhances the almond flavor.
• Rosewater or Orange Blossom Water (optional): These floral waters add a fragrant touch to the cookies.
• Powdered Sugar (for dusting): This is often used to coat the finished cookies.

Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a basic recipe for making amigdalota:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups ground almonds or almond flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 egg whites
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• Rosewater or orange blossom water (a few drops, optional)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds and granulated sugar.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks.

4. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the almond-sugar mixture until well combined. Add almond extract and a few drops of rosewater or orange blossom water if desired for extra flavor.

5. Take spoonfuls of the dough and shape them into small, flattened rounds or crescent shapes. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the cookies turn golden brown around the edges.

7. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.

8. Once the cookies have cooled slightly, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Dust the cooled amigdalota cookies with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Time Needed:
The preparation and baking time for amigdalota may vary, but on average, it takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to make a batch of these delightful almond cookies.

Enjoy your homemade amigdalota, and share them with friends and family to spread the joy of this Greek sweet treat! 😊🍪🌰

Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Amigdalota (Almond Cookies):

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx. 1 Cookie):

• Calories: 60-70 calories
• Total Fat: 4-5 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 0.4-0.5 grams
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: 0-5 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 6-7 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 1 gram
  • Sugars: 5-6 grams
• Protein: 1-2 grams

Health Information:

1. Rich in Healthy Fats: Almond cookies like Amigdalota contain almond flour, which is a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats. These fats are heart-healthy and can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

2. Low in Cholesterol: Amigdalota are cholesterol-free, which is beneficial for heart health.

3. Protein Content: While not a significant source of protein, these cookies do provide a small amount, which can contribute to your daily protein intake.

4. Moderate Calories: Amigdalota are relatively low in calories, making them a reasonable treat when consumed in moderation.

5. Dietary Fiber: They also contain a small amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion.

6. Sugar Content: These cookies do contain sugar, so it’s essential to be mindful of your sugar intake, especially if you have dietary restrictions or are watching your sugar consumption.

7. Gluten-Free Option: If made with almond flour and without any wheat products, Amigdalota can be gluten-free, which is suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.

8. Nut Allergy Warning: While almond cookies are delicious, it’s crucial to note that they contain almonds and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

Remember that the nutritional content can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used in your homemade Amigdalota. Enjoy these cookies as an occasional treat and part of a balanced diet.