Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Flavor: These cookies capture the essence of traditional Sicilian baking with almond flour and extracts.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with just a handful of pantry staples.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for a variety of diets.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, tea time, or as a delightful gift.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Whole almonds, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine almond flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together egg whites, almond extract, and vanilla extract until frothy.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually stir the egg white mixture into the dry ingredients until a sticky dough forms.
- Shape Cookies: Form small balls of dough (approximately 1 inch in diameter) with your hands and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each slightly and press a whole almond into the center of each cookie.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Lightly sprinkle the tops of the cookies with powdered sugar.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 100 per cookie
Variations
- Chocolate-Dipped: After cooling, dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate for an elegant twist.
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Pistachio Substitute: Replace whole almonds with pistachios for a colorful and flavorful garnish.
- Rosewater Accent: Swap the almond extract for a few drops of rosewater for a floral twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cookies in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes to refresh their texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
No, almond flour is key to the texture and flavor of these cookies. Regular flour would not provide the same result.
2. Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, these cookies are naturally gluten-free as they are made with almond flour.
3. Can I use egg replacers for a vegan version?
Yes, you can try aquafaba (chickpea water) as a substitute for egg whites, though the texture may vary slightly.
4. How can I ensure my cookies stay chewy?
Avoid overbaking and store them in an airtight container to retain moisture.
5. What can I use instead of whole almonds for garnish?
You can use candied cherries, chocolate chips, or even sprinkle with slivered almonds.
6. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
7. Is almond flour the same as almond meal?
Not quite. Almond flour is finer and made from blanched almonds, while almond meal has a coarser texture and may include skins.
8. Can I reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce the sugar, but the cookies may lose some of their structure and sweetness.
9. Do I need to whip the egg whites to stiff peaks?
No, you only need to whisk them until frothy.
10. Can I add other extracts?
Yes, feel free to experiment with flavors like orange or coconut extract.
Conclusion
Traditional Sicilian Almond Cookies are a simple yet sophisticated dessert that brings a touch of Italian heritage to your table. With their rich almond flavor, chewy texture, and crisp edges, these cookies are a true delight. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try them today and savor the taste of Sicily in every bite!
Traditional Sicilian Almond Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Traditional Sicilian Almond Cookies are a gluten-free Italian treat with a rich almond flavor, chewy texture, and crisp edges. Made with simple ingredients, these cookies are quick to prepare and perfect for holidays, gatherings, or as an everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Whole almonds, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine almond flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: Whisk egg whites, almond extract, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until frothy.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients to form a sticky dough.
- Shape Cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls, flatten slightly, and place on the baking sheet. Press a whole almond into the center of each.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Lightly sprinkle cookies with powdered sugar.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, until edges are golden.
- Cool: Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add citrus zest or substitute almond extract with rosewater.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian