Get ready to fall head over heels with Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti) — a classic treat that’s crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and completely irresistible. These cookies deliver bursts of almond flavor, making every bite a little piece of Italy at home. They’re also naturally gluten-free, quick to whip up, and fill your kitchen with the loveliest aroma. Whether you serve them for a celebration or bake a batch just because, Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti) are all about simple joy and unforgettable flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti), simplicity is the star. Each ingredient has an important role in flavor, texture, or even just that perfect golden finish, so be sure to select the best you can find for a dreamy batch of cookies.
- Almond flour: The heart of the recipe, bringing rich, nutty flavor and moistness to every bite.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the mix and gives the cookies their signature crisp edge.
- Large egg whites: Whipped to soft peaks for the irresistible chewy-soft center.
- Almond extract: A splash intensifies the authentic amaretti taste; don’t skip it!
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, balancing the bold almond flavor beautifully.
- Salt: Just a pinch lifts all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): For a snow-dusted look and an extra hint of sweetness.
- Whole almonds (optional, for garnish): Pressed on top, they add an elegant touch and a little crunch.
How to Make Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti)
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) so it’s perfectly warm when your cookies are ready to go. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together the almond flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Take a moment to break up any lumps in the almond flour — you want everything well dispersed for evenly flavored cookies.
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
Separate your egg whites into a clean bowl and whisk until you see soft peaks begin to form. This step helps create that classic airy texture that makes Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti) so delightful.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into your dry ingredients. Add both the almond and vanilla extracts, stirring until you have a sticky yet manageable dough. Don’t overwork it; gentle folding keeps the cookies tender.
Step 5: Shape and Coat the Cookies
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, shape the dough into little balls. Roll each ball into powdered sugar for that signature crackled, snowy finish. It’s a fun little kitchen moment that makes the cookies look extra inviting!
Step 6: Arrange and Garnish
Space each dough ball on the prepared baking sheet and lightly flatten them — just a bit! If you’d like, press a whole almond into the top of each for a lovely, authentic look.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. You’re watching for light golden edges and just-set centers. Don’t overbake; a soft interior is the soul of Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti)!
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let your cookies cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Patience rewards you here with perfectly textured cookies — slightly crisp outside, melt-in-your-mouth soft inside.
How to Serve Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti)
Garnishes
Dust each cookie with a fresh sprinkle of powdered sugar right before serving for extra charm. Pressing a whole almond into the top not only adds a touch of elegance but also makes the Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti) feel bakery-worthy.
Side Dishes
These cookies are spectacular with a simple espresso, cappuccino, or a cup of fragrant tea. They’re also divine served alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of vanilla gelato, making dessert hour delightfully memorable.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti) in a pretty tin lined with parchment for the perfect hostess gift, or stack them high on a festive platter for a holiday cookie swap. You can even tie a ribbon around a few and hand them out as thoughtful homemade favors!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week — though in most homes, they disappear much quicker!
Freezing
Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti) freeze absolutely beautifully. Once completely cooled, layer them between sheets of parchment in a sealed container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and enjoy their soft, chewy magic anytime.
Reheating
While these cookies are delightful at room temperature, you can revive their just-baked aroma by popping them in a low oven (300°F) for a few minutes. They’ll taste as if they came fresh out of the oven — perfect for unexpected guests or spontaneous cravings.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
Almond flour is essential for the signature taste and texture of Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti). Regular flour won’t give you the moist, nutty crumb that makes these cookies so special, so stick with almond flour if possible.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
You’ll want to pull them from the oven when they’re just turning lightly golden on the edges and still soft in the center. Remember, Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti) will continue to firm up a little as they cool.
Can I make them without almond extract?
Almond extract is what gives these cookies their rich, authentic flavor, but if you don’t have it, a little extra vanilla works in a pinch. The cookies will still be delicious, just a tad less almond-forward.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti) are made entirely with almond flour and contain no wheat, making them a naturally gluten-free, crowd-pleasing treat.
What’s the best way to shape the dough?
The dough is pretty sticky, so lightly dampening your hands can help you roll smooth balls. Scooping the dough with a cookie scoop makes portioning a breeze, and rolling in powdered sugar prevents sticking, too.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried baking Italian Almond Cookies (Soft Amaretti), now’s your moment! These little gems are so easy, full of pure almond bliss, and guaranteed to win over anyone who bites into one. Get your apron on and bring a sweet touch of Italy to your kitchen today!