Meet Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti), your new go-to treat whenever you’re craving something sweet, nutty, and utterly delightful! These cookies are soft inside, crackly on top, and bursting with pure almond flavor—plus, they come together in less than 40 minutes with just a handful of pantry staples. Whether you’re baking for a special Italian-inspired feast or simply want an elegant, gluten-free cookie recipe, you’ll fall in love with how easy, delicious, and satisfying these classic amaretti are.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Almond Cookies:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
Egg White Mixture:
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
Additional:
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
How to Make Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti)
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper—this helps with easy clean-up and prevents the cookies from sticking. A little prep goes a long way toward perfectly baked cookies every time!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour and granulated sugar until evenly combined. This simple blend sets the stage for flavor while ensuring your cookies bake up nice and even.
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with a hand mixer until soft peaks form. This only takes a couple of minutes, but it’s an essential step for achieving that light, chewy texture we love in Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti).
Step 4: Combine and Make Dough
Gently fold the whipped egg whites and almond extract into your dry mixture. Be patient and fold, rather than stir, until everything comes together into a sticky, cohesive dough. The aroma of almond at this point is absolutely irresistible!
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet about an inch apart. This gives them space to spread a little and develop those pretty cracks on top.
Step 6: Dust and Bake
If you love a snowy look, lightly dust the tops of the dough balls with powdered sugar before baking. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes until they’re lightly cracked on top and the bottoms are golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing! Let the cookies cool completely right on the tray before moving them—this helps them set and stay perfectly tender.
How to Serve Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti)
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar is classic and elegant, but you can also get creative by dipping the bottoms of your cookies in melted dark chocolate. For a festive touch, add a few sliced almonds on top before baking—these little extras make these Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti) truly shine.
Side Dishes
Amaretti cookies are delicious alongside an espresso, cappuccino, or after-dinner coffee. They also pair beautifully with fresh berries, a scoop of gelato, or even a glass of sweet dessert wine for an authentic Italian experience at home.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, stack your Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti) in a pyramid on a pretty platter, tuck a few into a decorative tin as a heartfelt homemade gift, or serve them with a ribbon-tied bundle for party favors. Their petite size and lovely appearance make them a hit anywhere you bring them!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. They’ll stay tender and chewy, ready to satisfy your cravings throughout the week.
Freezing
Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti) freeze beautifully! Let them cool completely, then pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months—just let them come to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
Reheating
You can enjoy these cookies straight from the container, but if you wish to refresh them, warm them in a low oven (300°F) for about 3 to 5 minutes. This will revive their delicate texture and bring out the aroma, just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour?
Almond flour is preferred for its fine texture and light color, which yield a tender cookie. If you use almond meal (which includes almond skins and is coarser), your Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti) may be denser and darker, but still tasty.
Are these cookies really gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe contains only almond flour, making Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti) naturally gluten-free and perfect for those with sensitivities or anyone wanting a flourless sweet treat.
What if I don’t have almond extract?
Almond extract gives these cookies their signature flavor, but you can use vanilla extract in a pinch. However, for that classic Italian almond flavor, almond extract is highly recommended.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! This recipe scales up beautifully. Simply double all the ingredients and use two baking sheets so you have plenty of Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti) to share with family and friends.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are ready when the tops are lightly cracked and the bottoms are golden brown. They’ll feel slightly soft when hot, but will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a cookie that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat, you’re simply going to adore Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti). Give them a try, share with those you love, and let these timeless Italian treats become a cherished part of your own baking repertoire!
Print
Easy Italian Almond Cookies (Amaretti) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 20 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Italian Almond Cookies, known as Amaretti, are a delightful gluten-free treat perfect for any occasion. With a crisp exterior and chewy center, these simple cookies are bursting with almond flavor and sweetness. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish or dip in dark chocolate for an extra indulgent twist.
Ingredients
Almond Cookies:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
Egg White Mixture:
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
Additional:
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine almond flour and granulated sugar.
- Whip egg whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Combine ingredients: Gently fold the beaten egg whites and almond extract into the dry mixture to form a sticky dough.
- Shape the cookies: Using a cookie scoop, form 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 20-22 minutes until lightly cracked on top and golden on the bottom.
- Cool and serve: Cool the cookies on the baking sheet before serving.
Notes
- For chewier cookies, slightly underbake.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Try dipping the cookies in melted dark chocolate for a delicious variation.
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