Ricciarelli Soft Almond Cookies From Siena

During the festive season, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of sweet treats baking in the oven to bring warmth and cheer to your home. If you’re looking to add a touch of Italian charm to your Christmas spread, then you’ll love making Ricciarelli Soft Almond Cookies from Siena. These delightful cookies are a traditional Italian Christmas delicacy, hailing from the picturesque town of Siena in Tuscany. With their soft, chewy texture and rich almond flavor, they are sure to become a favorite at your holiday gatherings.

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups almond flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Pinch of salt
– Additional confectioners’ sugar for dusting

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour and confectioners’ sugar. Mix well to ensure there are no lumps.
3. Add the egg whites, almond extract, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt to the almond flour mixture. Stir until the dough comes together. It should be slightly sticky but moldable.
4. Dust your hands with a little confectioners’ sugar to prevent sticking, then take a small amount of dough and roll it into a ball about the size of a walnut. Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
5. Gently flatten each cookie ball with the palm of your hand to create a round, thick disc shape.
6. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are just starting to turn golden around the edges.
7. 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.
8. Once the cookies are completely cooled, dust them generously with confectioners’ sugar. This adds a beautiful snowy finish to the cookies and enhances their sweetness.
9. Serve your Ricciarelli Soft Almond Cookies with a cup of espresso or hot cocoa for a truly indulgent treat that captures the essence of an Italian Christmas.

These Ricciarelli Soft Almond Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter, and their elegant appearance makes them perfect for gifting to friends and family. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make this recipe a must-try for anyone looking to infuse their Christmas celebrations with a touch of Italian flair. Let the flavors of almond, lemon, and vanilla transport you to the cobblestone streets of Siena as you savor each bite of these delectable cookies. Enjoy the magic of the season with these irresistible treats straight from the heart of Italy!