Lemon & Orange Blossom Amaretti (Italian Almond Cookies)

Ingredients

• unspecified grams Almond flour (Fine almond meal, gives the characteristic texture)
• unspecified grams Granulated sugar (Sweetens the dough)
• unspecified teaspoons Almond extract (bitter almond) (Provides the classic amaretti aroma)
• unspecified tablespoons Lemon zest (Zest of one fresh lemon, adds bright citrus flavor)
• 2 large Egg whites (Room‑temperature, beaten to stiff peaks)
• unspecified teaspoons Orange blossom water (Dipped fingertips in it to prevent dough from sticking and add fragrance)
• unspecified grams Powdered sugar (For coating the shaped cookies)
• unspecified pieces Whole almond (for topping) (Pressed gently into the centre of each cookie)

Instructions

1. Combine dry ingredients

   In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, granulated sugar, almond extract, and fresh lemon zest until evenly mixed.

   Time: PT5M

2. Beat egg whites

   In a second bowl, beat the two egg whites with an electric mixer until they form stiff, glossy peaks.

   Time: PT5M

3. Fold egg whites into the almond mixture

   Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the almond mixture using a silicone spatula, turning the bowl until just incorporated. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

   Time: PT2M

4. Rest the dough

   Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. This firms the dough and makes it easier to shape.

   Time: PT3H

5. Shape the amaretti

   Dip the tip of your finger in a few drops of orange blossom water, then roll portions of the chilled dough into walnut‑size balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat all sides.

   Time: PT10M

6. Add almond topping

   Press a whole almond gently into the centre of each coated ball, creating a small indentation.

   Time: PT5M

7. Arrange on baking sheet

   Place the finished amaretti on a parchment‑lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 cm apart.

   Time: PT2M

8. Preheat oven

   Preheat the oven to 170 °C (340 °F).

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: 170°C

9. Bake the cookies

   Bake the amaretti for about 10 minutes, until they are just lightly colored and the tops develop a faint crackle.

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: 170°C

10. Cool completely

    Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack until completely room‑temperature before storing.

    Time: PT15M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

120

Protein

2 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

7 g

Fiber

1 g