Amaretti (Italian Almond Cookies)
Category: Desserts
Yield: 50 pieces
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Blanched Almonds | 200g |
| Granulated Sugar | 140g |
| Powdered Sugar | 125g |
| Egg Whites | 50g |
| Bitter Almonds (Amaretto) | 15g |
| Baking Ammonia (for baking) | 3g |
| Almond Extract | to taste |
Instructions
To prepare these delicious Italian Amaretti, begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F) on static mode. Toast the blanched almonds for several minutes on a baking tray, ensuring they lightly brown. Once toasted, remove from the oven and allow them to cool.
Next, place the cooled almonds in a food processor along with the bitter almonds, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar. Process the mixture until it forms a fine, even blend. Afterward, sift the mixture twice to achieve the finest texture possible. Transfer the sifted almond-sugar mixture into a large bowl.
Add the baking ammonia and egg whites to the mixture, stirring gently to combine. You will notice the dough begin to firm up. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and allow the mixture to rest for a few minutes, which will help the ingredients to meld together.
Once rested, you are ready to form the Amaretti cookies. Using your hands, roll the dough into small balls—aim for about 25 per baking sheet. Place each ball on a lined baking sheet, making sure to space them out evenly. For a traditional touch, gently press the center of each ball with your fingers to slightly flatten them.
Bake the Amaretti in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they turn a light golden color and have a delicate, crisp exterior. Depending on your oven’s capacity, you may wish to bake them in two separate batches, placing only 25 cookies on the sheet at a time to ensure even baking.
Once baked, let the Amaretti cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These crisp, aromatic almond cookies are perfect for any occasion, offering a delicious balance of sweetness and nutty flavor.
Enjoy your freshly baked Amaretti, a true taste of Italian tradition, whether served alongside coffee or as a delightful treat to share with friends and family.
This recipe is designed to capture the essence of Italian baking with its rich almond flavor and light, crispy texture. For a unique twist, feel free to adjust the almond extract to suit your taste. Perfect for the holidays or a special occasion, these Amaretti cookies are bound to become a beloved favorite.
