Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Sicilian Treat: These ricciarelli bites bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and requires only a few steps.
- Naturally Gluten-Free: Made with almond flour, these cookies are perfect for those avoiding gluten.
- Perfectly Chewy: The texture is soft and chewy, with a slight crunch from the almond topping.
- Versatile and Shareable: Great for gifting, serving at parties, or enjoying solo.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- almond flour
- powdered sugar
- large egg whites
- almond extract
- vanilla extract
- salt
- sliced almonds (for topping)
- powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine almond flour, powdered sugar, salt, egg whites, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Shape Bites: Form small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) with your hands and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Add Toppings: Press a few sliced almonds onto each dough ball and lightly dust them with powdered sugar.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the tops are slightly cracked.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Serve: Enjoy these chewy bites with your favorite hot beverage!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 bites
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 80 per bite
Variations
- Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a fresh citrus flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies for added indulgence.
- Pistachio Topping: Substitute sliced almonds with crushed pistachios for a colorful twist.
- Sugar-Free Option: Use a powdered sugar substitute for a lower-sugar version.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice note.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the ricciarelli bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freezing: Freeze the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
- Reheating: Allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in a low oven for a few minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly coarser. Almond flour yields the best results.
2. Can I replace the egg whites with aquafaba?
Yes, aquafaba (chickpea water) can be used as a vegan substitute for egg whites.
3. What’s the best way to achieve the chewy texture?
Avoid overbaking; remove the cookies once the edges are lightly golden.
4. Can I skip the powdered sugar dusting?
Yes, but the powdered sugar adds a traditional touch and enhances the flavor.
5. How do I prevent the dough from sticking to my hands?
Lightly wet your hands with water or coat them with a bit of powdered sugar.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe scales well for larger batches.
7. Are these cookies suitable for keto diets?
With almond flour and powdered sugar substitutes, you can make them keto-friendly.
8. Can I use other extracts for flavoring?
Yes, try substituting almond extract with orange or lemon extract for variety.
9. Do these cookies harden after cooling?
No, they maintain a soft and chewy texture even after cooling.
10. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these cookies store well and can be made a few days in advance.
Conclusion
Sicilian Almond Ricciarelli Bites are a delicious and elegant treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them with a cup of tea, their chewy texture and almond flavor are sure to impress. Try this recipe today and bring a taste of Sicily to your home!
Sicilian Almond Ricciarelli Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sicilian Almond Ricciarelli Bites are chewy, nutty Italian almond cookies that are naturally gluten-free and perfect for pairing with coffee or tea. With a soft texture and a delightful almond flavor, these traditional cookies are ideal for gifting or enjoying as a sweet treat.
Ingredients
- Almond flour
- Powdered sugar
- Large egg whites
- Almond extract
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
- Sliced almonds (for topping)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine almond flour, powdered sugar, salt, egg whites, almond extract, and vanilla extract until a sticky dough forms.
- Shape Bites: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Add Toppings: Press sliced almonds onto each ball and dust lightly with powdered sugar.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes until edges are golden and tops are slightly cracked.
- Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring to a wire rack.
- Serve: Enjoy these chewy bites with coffee, tea, or as a snack.
Notes
- Add citrus zest for extra flavor.
- Substitute almond topping with pistachios for variety.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
