Introduction
Looking for a treat that is both indulgent and simple? Italian Almond Cookies (Ricciarelli) are soft, chewy delights that pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. With the rich flavors of almond and a hint of citrus, these cookies are a must-have for any occasion, especially during the holidays.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 2 cups (200 g) almond flour
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Dusting:
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, granulated sugar, and orange zest. Mix until well blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the dry ingredients. Add the almond extract and vanilla extract, mixing just until a sticky dough forms.
2. Shape the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Shape each ball into an oval or log-like shape, resembling the traditional Ricciarelli.
- Place the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
3. Dust with Powdered Sugar
- Generously dust the cookies with powdered sugar. This creates the signature crackled surface as they bake.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are set and the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to maintain their chewy texture.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these delightful cookies with espresso, cappuccino, or a glass of dessert wine for an authentic Italian experience.
- Store them in an airtight container for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage.
Pro Tips for Perfect Ricciarelli
- Texture Matters: Be careful not to overmix the dough, as it can affect the light and chewy texture.
- Even Shapes: Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized portions.
- Extra Zest: For a stronger citrus flavor, add a bit more orange zest or substitute with lemon zest.
Nutritional Information
- Calories per Cookie: ~110
- Protein: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fat: 6 g
FAQs
1. Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
No, almond flour is essential for the texture and flavor of these cookies.
2. How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
Ricciarelli are naturally gluten-free, as they are made with almond flour.
3. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped dough for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
These Italian Almond Cookies (Ricciarelli) are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a beautiful addition to any dessert table. With their crackly powdered sugar finish and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just as an indulgent snack.
Try this recipe today and bring a taste of Italy into your home!