During the festive season, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house to bring warmth and joy. If you’re looking for a delightful Italian Christmas treat that combines the nutty richness of almonds with the sweetness of honey, then you’ll love our recipe for Mandorlini Honey Almond Macaroons. These delicate and flavorful cookies are sure to become a staple on your holiday dessert table.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups finely ground almonds
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Sliced almonds for decoration
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the finely ground almonds, sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy and slightly stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the honey and almond extract into the egg white mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the almond and sugar mixture into the egg white mixture, folding gently until a sticky dough forms.
6. Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, scoop out small portions of the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in between each cookie.
7. Press a sliced almond onto the top of each cookie for decoration.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, store the Mandorlini Honey Almond Macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. These cookies also freeze well, so you can enjoy them for even longer.
These Mandorlini Honey Almond Macaroons are not only a delightful treat but also a wonderful homemade gift idea for friends and family during the holiday season. The combination of nutty almonds, sweet honey, and aromatic almond extract creates a unique flavor profile that will surely be a hit at any Christmas gathering. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and indulge in the magic of baking these Italian-inspired cookies that are perfect for spreading joy and sweetness this festive season.
