AMARETTI COOKIES: GRANDMA’S RECIPE

The word “amaretti” comes from the Italian word “amaro,” a reference to the typical bitter taste given by the almonds used in their preparation.

They date back to the late Middle Ages, when Italian cuisine was beginning to take shape.

Almonds were a common ingredient in sweet recipes of the time, and amaretti are thought to have been created in monasteries or convents, where monks experimented with available ingredients.

Amaretti have several variations throughout Italy, each characterized by small changes in the recipe that give them unique flavors.

Why you will like this recipe

• Simple ingredients: Requires only basic pantry ingredients and almonds.
• Quick to prepare: ready in just 35 minutes!
• Authentic flavor: Bitter almonds impart the distinctive taste of traditional macaroons.

Elevate your dessert table with these irresistible macaroons. Enjoy their delicate balance of sweetness and almond flavor in every bite!

Servings: About 20 amaretti

Cooking Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup of unpeeled bitter almonds
• 3/4 cup of unpeeled almonds
• 4 cups of sugar
• 3 egg whites
• 1/4 tsp of baking powder

METHOD:

1. Prepare the almond mixture.

• In a blender or food processor, mix the sugar with the baking powder.
• Add all the almonds to the blender along with half of the sugar mixture.
• Grind the ingredients for about 2 minutes, then add the remaining sugar and grind to a fine powder.

2. Prepare the dough.

• Transfer the almond and sugar mixture to a bowl.
• Beat the egg whites lightly with a fork, then add them to the dry ingredients.
• Mix thoroughly until a firm dough forms.

3. Form the cookies

• Wet your hands (keep a bowl of water nearby) to make shaping easier.
• Form balls with the dough and dip them in granulated sugar to give an extra touch of sweetness.
• Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with baking paper, leaving a space between each cookie.

4. Bake

• Preheat the oven to 330°F (165°C).
• Bake the macaroons for 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
• Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving.

Tips for perfect amaretti (macaroons)

• Wet hands: Use wet hands when rolling out the dough to prevent sticking.
• Uniform size: For even baking, try to shape the macaroons into balls of similar size.
• Storage: Store macaroons in an airtight container to maintain their chewy texture for up to a week.