Amaretti Soft Almond Cookies

During the festive season in Italy, Christmas wouldn’t be complete without delectable sweet treats to cozy up with on chilly evenings. One beloved recipe that graces many Italian tables is Amaretti Soft Almond Cookies. These irresistible cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with almond flavor, making them the perfect indulgence for this magical time of year. Whether you’re baking as a thoughtful gift or simply craving a delightful treat for yourself, these Amaretti cookies are sure to bring joy to your holiday season.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups almond flour
– 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Sliced almonds, for garnish (optional)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour and granulated sugar. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. This will help give the cookies their light, airy texture.

4. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the almond flour mixture. Add the almond extract and salt, continuing to fold until you have a smooth, sticky dough.

5. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form small rounds of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet. You can also roll the dough into balls and then gently flatten them with the palm of your hand for a traditional cookie shape.

6. If desired, top each cookie with a few sliced almonds for a decorative touch and an extra crunch.

7. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until they are set but still soft to the touch. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking, as you want them to remain delightfully chewy.

8. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Before serving, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. This not only adds a touch of sweetness but also enhances their visual appeal.

10. Enjoy these Amaretti Soft Almond Cookies with a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine for a truly indulgent treat that captures the essence of Italian holiday baking.

These delightful cookies are not only a joy to make but also a delight to share with loved ones during the festive season. Whether you’re gathering around the Christmas tree or cozying up by the fire, these Amaretti Soft Almond Cookies will bring a touch of Italian charm to your celebrations. Enjoy the magic of the holidays with each sweet, almond-infused bite!