What are Amaretti Cookies?
Amaretti Cookies are classic very delicious Italian cookies that are made from almond flour, sugar and egg whites. They can be soft and chewy or crisp and crunchy, depending on the recipe.
Originating from Italy these very delicious and simple cookies are often flavored with almond extract or an even a splash of Amaretto liqueur to get their rich almond flavor.
Why I Love This Authentic Amaretti Cookies Recipe?
I love this Italian Amaretti Cookies recipe because it’s so simple and very delicious. And it uses just a few ingredients that most likely you already have at home to make something very special. These cookies are full of almond flavor. They are the perfect dessert to have with coffee!
What’s even better is that these cookies are gluten free and dairy free! Plus they are so easy to make that you will find yourself making them again and again!
Key Ingredients
- Almond Flour: I recommend using finely ground almond flour for the best texture and flavor. It forms the base of the cookies and its giving them their signature nutty taste. Avoid almond meal, because its more coarser and may change the texture of the cookies.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps create a slight crispness on the outside. For a deeper flavor you can substitute part of it with light brown sugar.
- Egg Whites: Fresh egg whites are necessary to bind the ingredients and give the cookies their chewy interior. I love whipping them a little bit before mixing to get even distribution.
- Almond Extract: A small amount of pure almond extract helps the natural almond flavor. Be cautious not to overdo it because it’s very strong.
- Powdered Sugar: Used for dusting the cookies before baking, it gives them a beautiful, crackled finish. I recommend sifting the sugar for an even coating.
- Amaretto: A splash of Amaretto adds a subtle almond liqueur flavor that makes the cookies even more indulgent. You can skip this if you prefer an alcohol-free version.
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and brings out the almond flavor.
Expert Tips
Egg Whites: Keep the egg whites are at room temperature for easier whipping and better texture.
Shape and Size: Use a small cookie scoop or teaspoon to get the same size and shape for even baking.
Flavor Variations: For a different twist you can add a hint of lemon or orange zest to the dough.
Texture: For a crunchier cookie, bake a few minutes longer until the edges are golden brown.
Variations and Substitutions
- Chocolate-Dipped Amaretti: Dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
- Citrus Amaretti: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy flavor.
- Nutty Amaretti: Add a handful of finely chopped nuts, such as hazelnuts or pistachios, to the dough for added texture.
- Cocoa Amaretti: Substitute a tablespoon of almond flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate almond cookie.
How to Store?
Store Italian Amaretti Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage you can put these cookies in an airtight container and freeze them for 3 months. Allow the cookies to come to room temperature before serving.
How to Serve?
Serve these Italian Amaretti Cookies with a cup of espresso or tea for a treat. They also pair wonderfully with dessert wine or a scoop of gelato.
These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, as a sweet snack, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. And If You love Italian desserts I highly recommend trying out these Italian biscotti cookies!
Print
Italian Amaretti Cookies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 cookies 1x
Description
Italian Amaretti Cookies are traditional almond cookies that are gluten-free and made with almond flour, sugar, and egg whites. Perfectly chewy and full of almond flavor, these cookies are an easy and delicious Italian treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon Amaretto liqueur (optional)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine almond flour, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites, almond extract, and Amaretto (if using) into the almond flour mixture until a dough forms.
- Shape Cookies: Using a small cookie scoop or teaspoon, form small balls of dough and roll them in powdered sugar. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Lightly press the tops to flatten slightly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should be firm on the outside but still soft inside.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Dust the cooled cookies with additional powdered sugar if desired and serve.
Notes
Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature for easier whipping.
Adjust the baking time to achieve your preferred cookie texture, shorter for chewy and longer for crisp.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 2g
Nutrition information
This website gives estimated nutritional information, which might change depending on the ingredients used.
FAQs
Can I make Amaretti Cookies without almond extract?
Yes, you can make Amaretti Cookies without almond extract, but it will slightly reduce the almond flavor. You can use vanilla extract as a substitute.
How can I make my Amaretti Cookies crunchier?
For crunchier Amaretti Cookies, bake them a few minutes longer until the edges are golden brown. Ensure they cool completely to achieve a firmer texture.
Are Amaretti Cookies gluten-free?
Yes, traditional Amaretti Cookies made with almond flour are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
