Italian Amaretti Cookies Recipe: How to Make the Perfect Chewy Treat
Italian amaretti cookies are a traditional Italian cookie that is perfect for any occasion. These small, almond-flavored cookies are a combination of almond flour, sugar, egg whites, and amaretto liqueur. They have a slightly crunchy exterior and a soft, marzipan-like center that makes them irresistible to almond lovers.
In this article, we will explore the basics of Italian amaretti cookies and provide you with a simple recipe for making your own delicious amaretti cookies at home.
What Are Amaretti Cookies?
Amaretti cookies are a traditional Italian almond cookie that originated in northern Italy. The word “amaretti” comes from the Italian word “amaretto,” which means “a little bit bitter.”
Amaretti cookies are often confused with amaretto liqueur, but the two are not the same. Amaretto is a sweet, almond-flavored liqueur made from bitter almonds, apricot kernels, or a combination of the two. Amaretti cookies, on the other hand, are almond-flavored cookies made from a combination of almond flour, sugar, and egg whites.
Amaretti biscuits are also sometimes confused with biscotti, but the two are not the same. Biscotti are a type of Italian cookie that are twice-baked and have a hard, crunchy texture, while amaretti cookies are soft and chewy.
Ingredients for Italian Amaretti Cookies
To make traditional Italian amaretti cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups almond flour or almond meal
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 tbsp amaretto liqueur
- Zest of one lemon
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
The almond flour or almond meal is the base for the cookies, while the sugar provides the sweetness. The egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks and folded into the dough to provide the cookies with their light, airy texture. The almond extract, amaretto liqueur, and lemon zest provide the cookies with their sweet almond flavor.
The Original Recipe for Soft Amaretti Cookies
Here is the step-by-step guide to making traditional Italian amaretti cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, granulated sugar, and lemon zest.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites to stiff peaks.
- Fold the beaten egg whites into the dry ingredients, along with the almond extract and amaretto liqueur, until fully combined.
- Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form the dough into small balls, about the size of a whole almond.
- Dust the dough balls with powdered sugar and place them on the lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
- Bake the cookies for 20-25 minutes, until they are set and lightly golden brown.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Making the Perfect Italian Amaretti Cookies
When making Italian amaretti cookies, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to ensure that you achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Here are some additional tips:
- Store your amaretti cookies in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
- For softer, chewier amaretti cookies, try making amaretti morbidi, which are made with ground almonds and are more tender than traditional amaretti cookies.
- To prevent the powdered sugar from melting and sticking to the outside of the cookies, dust them immediately before baking.
- Use a food processor to grind your own almonds for the freshest flavor and texture.
- Beat your egg whites to soft peaks before folding them into the dry ingredients to achieve a lighter, fluffier texture in your cookies.
- Use a large bowl to mix your dry ingredients and a medium bowl to beat your egg whites.
- If you’re looking for a more traditional Italian cookie recipe, try making Italian macaroons or other simple Italian cookies.
- Use cookie sheets to bake your amaretti cookies for even cooking and browning.
- A stand mixer can make the process of making amaretti cookies easier and more efficient.
- To form the dough balls, use the palm of your hand to gently roll them into shape and ensure they are all the same size.
By following these tips and tricks, you can achieve the perfect recipe for making Italian amaretti cookies. With their sweet almond flavor, slight crunch, and chewy interior, these cookies are a delicious and easy recipe for any occasion.
Soft vs. Crispy Amaretti Cookies
If you prefer your amaretti cookies to be crispy, you can adjust the recipe by adding a little bit of all-purpose flour or by baking the cookies for a longer time. Alternatively, you can try adding sliced almonds to the surface of the cookies before baking for an extra crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Italian amaretti cookies:
What is the difference between Amaretto and amaretti?
Amaretto is a sweet, almond-flavored liqueur, while amaretti are almond-flavored cookies made from almond flour or almond meal.
Are amaretti biscuits the same as biscotti?
No, amaretti biscuits are soft and chewy, while biscotti are twice-baked and have a hard, crunchy texture.
What does amaretti mean in Italian?
Amaretti means “a little bit bitter” in Italian.
Can I use almond extract instead of amaretto?
Yes, you can substitute almond extract for amaretto in the recipe.
Why is amaretto not poisonous?
Although amaretto is made from bitter almonds, it is safe to consume in moderation because the almonds used in its production are processed to remove any harmful toxins.
Is Frangelico the same as amaretto?
No, Frangelico is a hazelnut-flavored liqueur, while amaretto is an almond-flavored liqueur.
Is amaretto almond or hazelnut?
Amaretto is an almond-flavored liqueur.
What is the closest thing to amaretti biscuits?
The closest thing to amaretti biscuits are macarons or macaroons, which are also small, sweet, and almond-flavored cookies.
Why did my amaretti cookies flatten?
If your amaretti cookies flattened while baking, it may be because the egg whites were not beaten to stiff peaks or because the dough was too wet.
Is butter or oil better for biscotti?
Biscotti are traditionally made with butter, but you can use oil instead for a slightly different texture.
Bottom Line
Italian amaretti cookies are a simple Italian cookie recipe that can be made with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you prefer them soft and chewy or crispy and crunchy, these traditional Italian almond cookies are a great way to enjoy the sweet almond flavor of Italy.
By following the simple recipe and tips provided in this article, you can make the perfect amaretti cookies with a chewy center, slightly crunchy exterior, and marzipan-like flavor. And for almond lovers, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a great cookie recipe with a sweet almond flavor.
Traditional Italian Amaretti Cookies Recipe
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small cookie scoop or spoon
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour or almond meal
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 egg whites at room temperature
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 tbsp amaretto liqueur
- Zest of one lemon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, granulated sugar, and lemon zest.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites to stiff peaks.
- Fold the beaten egg whites into the dry ingredients, along with the almond extract and amaretto liqueur, until fully combined.
- Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form the dough into small balls, about the size of a whole almond.
- Dust the dough balls with powdered sugar and place them on the lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
- Bake the cookies for 20-25 minutes, until they are set and lightly golden brown.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For a crispier cookie, try adding a little bit of all-purpose flour to the recipe.
To achieve the perfect texture, make sure your egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks before folding them into the dry ingredients.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
by Chef Chloe
Chloe is passionate about creating unique dishes that draw on the flavors of her favorite cultures. She loves experimenting with new ingredients and pushing the boundaries of traditional recipes. Her enthusiasm for cooking is infectious, and she is always eager to share her creations with friends and family.