Chewy Amaretti Almond Cookies

This chewy amaretti cookie recipe transforms a few simple ingredients into delightful almond treats that rival fancy macarons without all the fuss. These Italian-inspired cookies deliver that perfect balance of crisp exterior and soft chewy center that makes them irresistible for almond lovers.

I discovered this recipe years ago while searching for something that could satisfy my macaron craving without the technical challenges. Now these have become my go to cookie whenever I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Almond paste: one 7-ounce tube offers pure concentrated almond flavor that forms the foundation of these cookies
• Sugar: one cup provides the sweetness and helps create that distinctive crackly top
• Kosher salt: just a pinch enhances all the flavors while balancing the sweetness
• Egg whites: two large at room temperature act as the binder and create that perfect chewy texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Oven and Pans:

Set your oven to 300°F with racks positioned in the upper and lower thirds. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.

Make the Batter:

Place almond paste sugar and salt in a food processor and pulse until broken into small pieces. Add room temperature egg whites and continue processing until you achieve a smooth homogeneous batter with no lumps.

Pipe the Cookies:

Transfer your batter to a pastry bag fitted with a 3/8-inch tip. Pipe small 3/4-inch rounds about an inch apart on your prepared baking sheets. They may look small but will expand during baking. If any cookies have peaks dip your fingertip in water and gently press down to create even tops.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake for 15 to 18 minutes rotating and switching the position of your pans halfway through. You will see them suddenly puff up around the 15-minute mark creating that signature amaretti texture. Look for a golden color and puffed appearance.

Cool and Assemble:

Allow cookies to cool almost completely on the baking sheets. They will be much easier to remove cleanly from the parchment once cooled. For an extra special treat sandwich pairs of cookies with raspberry jam or chocolate ganache.

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I particularly love using high-quality almond paste in these cookies because it makes such a noticeable difference in the final flavor. My grandmother was Italian and would make something similar every Christmas my version is a tribute to those memories but with simplified technique.

Storage Secrets

These amaretti cookies maintain their best texture when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The cookies tend to soften slightly over time which some people actually prefer. For longer storage freezing is your best option they freeze beautifully for up to a month with no loss of flavor. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Flavor Variations

While the classic amaretti is perfect on its own try adding different extracts or zests to create unique variations. A quarter teaspoon of orange or lemon zest folded into the batter adds a bright citrus note that complements the almond beautifully. For a more sophisticated twist add a drop of pure almond extract to intensify the flavor or incorporate a tablespoon of amaretto liqueur into the batter.

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Serving Suggestions

These cookies make the perfect accompaniment to afternoon espresso or tea offering that sweet bite that complements bitter coffee perfectly. In Italy amaretti are traditionally served alongside dessert wines like vin santo where you can dip the cookies for an elevated experience. They also make wonderful additions to dessert platters especially during the holidays when their almond flavor pairs beautifully with other seasonal treats.

The Italian Connection

Amaretti cookies have deep roots in Italian culinary tradition dating back centuries. The name amaretti means little bitter ones in Italian referring to the slightly bitter almond flavor that was traditionally achieved using bitter almonds. Today most recipes including this one use sweet almonds with perhaps a touch of almond extract to mimic that classic flavor profile. These cookies originated in the Lombardy region of Italy but variations exist throughout the country making them a beloved part of Italian cookie culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What is the key ingredient in amaretti cookies?

Almond paste is the main ingredient, which provides the distinct almond flavor and chewy texture.

→ Can I reduce the sugar in these cookies?

Yes, you can experiment with less sugar, but it may alter the texture and sweetness balance.

→ How do I make these cookies into sandwich treats?

Spread raspberry jam or chocolate ganache between two cookies to create a sandwich version.

→ How should I store amaretti cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze for up to a month.

→ What makes these cookies different from macarons?

Unlike macarons, amaretti cookies are simpler to make as they don’t require precise folding techniques or concern over humidity.