Amaretti
Authentic Italian amaretti cookies, known for their delightful almond flavor and a texture that can range from delightfully chewy to satisfyingly crisp. Traditionally made with bitter almonds or apricot kernels for a distinct, slightly bitter-sweet taste.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Almond flour(Finely ground. If using apricot kernels, ensure they are blanched and ground.)
- 200 g Granulated sugar
- 2 Egg whites(Large eggs, at room temperature. Ensure no yolk is present.)
- 1 tsp Almond extract(Use good quality extract for best flavor. For a more authentic bitter almond flavor, consider a combination of almond extract and a tiny drop of bitter almond extract (use with caution).)
- for dusting Powdered sugar(Also known as confectioners' sugar.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour and granulated sugar until well combined and no lumps remain. This ensures an even texture in the final cookies.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 2
Add the room temperature egg whites and almond extract to the dry ingredients. Mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until a thick, cohesive dough forms. It should be sticky but hold its shape.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. Place a generous amount of powdered sugar in a shallow dish. Take about 1 tablespoon of dough at a time, roll it between your palms to form a ball (about 1 inch in diameter), and then roll each ball in the powdered sugar to coat evenly. Place the coated balls about 1.5 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Bake the amaretti for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies have spread slightly, the tops have cracked, and the edges are a beautiful golden brown. The exact time will depend on your oven and the size of your cookies. They should feel firm to the touch.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 5
Let the amaretti cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to set properly.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a crispier cookie, bake for the full 20 minutes. For a chewier center, reduce baking time slightly.
- ✓The distinct flavor comes from using bitter almonds or apricot kernels. Regular almonds will yield a milder almond flavor.
- ✓Naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- ✓Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Soft Amaretti: Reduce baking time by a few minutes and do not overbake.
- Chocolate Amaretti: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Citrus Amaretti: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough.