🍪 Almond Amaretti Cookies

Lightly crisp on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside, Almond Amaretti Cookies are a timeless Italian classic that melt in your mouth with every bite. Made with almond flour, egg whites, and a touch of amaretto or almond extract, these cookies are naturally gluten-free and full of rich almond flavor. Perfect for pairing with coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine, these little gems are simplicity at its finest. 🇮🇹✨


❤️ Why You’ll Love Almond Amaretti Cookies

Naturally gluten-free – made with almond flour only.
Crispy outside, chewy center – that irresistible amaretti texture.
Elegant yet easy – only a handful of ingredients and simple steps.
Perfect for gifting – great for Christmas, holidays, or any celebration.


🌰 Ingredients

  • 2 cups almond flour (finely ground, blanched)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)
  • 2 large egg whites, room temperature
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (or 1 teaspoon amaretto liqueur for a bolder flavor)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Powdered sugar, for rolling

Optional: add 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a touch of freshness.


👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.


Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

  • Almond flour
  • Sugar
  • Salt

This ensures an even texture before adding the wet ingredients.


Step 3: Beat the Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a hand mixer until soft peaks form — they should be fluffy but not dry.


Step 4: Combine and Flavor

Gently fold the egg whites into the almond mixture.
Add almond extract (or amaretto) and stir until a sticky dough forms.
It should hold together easily when rolled between your fingers.


Step 5: Shape the Cookies

  1. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into a ball.
  2. Roll each ball lightly in powdered sugar until fully coated.
  3. Place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches apart.

For a classic look, lightly press the tops of the cookies to slightly flatten them.


Step 6: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the tops are lightly golden and cracked but still soft in the center.
Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.


🍬 Tips for Perfect Amaretti

Use room-temperature egg whites for the best volume.
Do not overbake — the cookies should stay chewy inside.
✨ For extra flavor, add a few drops of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of orange zest.
✨ If you love crunch, bake them a few minutes longer until golden all over.


☕ Serving Suggestions

Serve your Almond Amaretti Cookies with:

  • A cup of espresso or cappuccino
  • A glass of Vin Santo or dessert wine 🍷
  • Alongside gelato or tiramisu for an Italian dessert platter 🍨

These cookies also make a beautiful addition to a holiday cookie tray or a thoughtful homemade gift.


🧊 Storage

  • Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
  • Freeze: Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
    Thaw at room temperature before serving.

💛 Final Thoughts

These Almond Amaretti Cookies capture the essence of Italian baking — simple, rustic, and irresistibly delicious. The balance between the crisp exterior and the soft, chewy middle makes them the kind of cookie you can’t eat just one of.

Whether you’re making them for a holiday celebration, a coffee break, or as a sweet homemade gift, these cookies are guaranteed to impress with their authentic almond flavor and elegant charm. 🇮🇹✨

Print
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🍪 Almond Amaretti Cookies


  • Author: WAFA LI

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups (150g) almond flour (not meal)
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 2 large egg whites
• ½ tsp almond extract (or ¼ tsp bitter almond extract for authentic taste*)
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: sliced almonds for topping

💡 Note: Bitter almond extract is traditional but use sparingly—it’s potent. Regular almond extract works great too!


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. In a bowl, whisk almond flour and powdered sugar.
  3. In another bowl, beat egg whites until frothy (no need for stiff peaks). Mix in almond extract and salt.
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients, stirring until a thick, sticky dough forms.
  5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls and place on the tray (they won’t spread much). Flatten slightly and top with a sliced almond if desired.
  6. Bake 18–22 minutes, until golden at the edges and set.
  7. Let cool completely—they crisp up as they cool.

Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 weeks.

💡 Make ahead: Dough can be piped and chilled before baking for neater shapes.

PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 10 mins , Cook Time : 20 mins , Total Time : 30 mins , Servings : 18 cookies , Calories : 80 per cookie , Net Carbs: 7g , Fats: 6g , Protein: 2g

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