As I stood in my kitchen, a nostalgic scent of toasted almonds enveloped me, whisking me back to sunny afternoons in Italy, where the air is always filled with sweet indulgence. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Soft and Chewy Italian Almond Cookies, or Amaretti, a delightful treat that captures the essence of those moments. With just seven simple ingredients, this gluten-free and dairy-free masterpiece delivers a perfect balance of crispness and tenderness in every bite. Whether you’re wrapping them up as a thoughtful gift or simply treating yourself, they’re an effortless crowd-pleaser that will elevate any gathering. Ready to bring a little Italian flair to your dessert table? Let’s dive into the world of these almond-infused delights—you won’t want to miss out!

Why are Italian Almond Cookies so irresistible?

Simplicity: This recipe shines with just 7 ingredients, making it easy for anyone to whip up these delightful treats.

Crisp and Chewy: Experience the perfect contrast between a delicate, crunchy exterior and a soft, chewy center that melts in your mouth.

Allergen-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, these amaretti cookies cater to various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can indulge without worry.

Customizable: Get creative with flavors! Add cocoa for a chocolate version or experiment with zesty citrus to make them uniquely yours.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served at a dinner party or enjoyed with coffee, these cookies never fail to impress guests and family alike. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee for an unforgettable dessert experience. Don’t forget to check out our recipe for Gluten Free Cookies for more tasty treats!

Italian Almond Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Egg Whites – Provide structure and stability; use at room temperature for better whipping.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness and crispness; substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
• Almond Flour – The star ingredient that delivers a rich almond flavor; do not substitute for best texture.
• Almond Extract – Enhances the almond flavor; opt for pure almond extract for superior taste.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates the flavor; essential, but can be omitted for a salt-free treat.
• Flaked Almonds – Roll the cookie balls for an added crunch; chopped almonds or hazelnuts can be used for a twist.
• Powdered Sugar – Dust on top for visual appeal; optional but adds a lovely finishing touch to these Italian almond cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Almond Cookie

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Sheets
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. The parchment will also help the cookies maintain their lovely, chewy texture as they bake—so don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, sugar, and salt until well combined. This mixture forms the foundation of your Italian Almond Cookies, providing structure and sweetness. Look for a fine consistency with no lumps, which is essential for achieving that soft and chewy center you’ll adore.

Step 3: Whip Egg Whites
In a separate, clean bowl, beat the room temperature egg whites using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. This process should take about 3 to 5 minutes. The egg whites will become glossy and hold peaks upright when the beaters are lifted, contributing to the airy texture that characterizes these delightful Italian Almond Cookies.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the whipped egg whites, incorporating the almond extract as you go. Use a spatula to carefully combine the ingredients until a thick, sticky batter forms. Be cautious not to overmix, as you want to retain that lightness from the egg whites for perfect cookie texture.

Step 5: Shape Cookies
Using a small cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll each piece into a ball in your palms. Once shaped, roll the cookie dough balls in flaked almonds to coat their exterior. This step not only adds a delightful crunch but also enhances the almond flavor in these Italian Almond Cookies.

Step 6: Bake
Place the cookie balls on the lined baking sheets, slightly flattening each one with your hand. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 22 minutes until they are set and the edges turn lightly golden. Look for small cracks on the surface; this indicates they’re perfectly baked, achieving that enjoyable contrast of chewy and crispy textures.

Step 7: Cool and Dust
Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the pan for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. For a delightful finishing touch, dust the Italian Almond Cookies with powdered sugar before serving, enhancing their charm and sweetness.

What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Italian Almond Cookies

Indulge in a feast of delightful pairings that elevate your almond cookie experience to new heights.

Rich Espresso: A shot of bold espresso complements the sweet almond flavor, creating a harmonious balance of taste that brings out the cookie’s best notes.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream offers a luscious contrast to the cookies’ texture, turning each bite into a blissful dessert moment. For an indulgent twist, try a scoop drizzled with warm chocolate sauce.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea provides a calming contrast, enhancing the almond flavor while making for a perfect afternoon snack.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries: Juicy, sweet strawberries dipped in rich chocolate introduce a fruity freshness that lightens up the sweetness of the cookies. Pairing them together makes for an elegant dessert presentation.
Fruity Wine: A chilled glass of Moscato or Prosecco adds bubbly sweetness, creating a delightful pairing that celebrates the lovely notes of almond amidst a flourish of refreshment.
Lemon Zest Shortbread: Enjoying these cookies alongside zesty lemon shortbread introduces a bright, tangy note, balancing the sweetness while keeping your palate excited.

How to Store and Freeze Italian Almond Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your Italian Almond Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This will help preserve their delightful texture and chewy center.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer storage time, you can store the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to seal them tightly to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Layer them with parchment paper between cookies to avoid sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Italian Almond Cookies, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes at 300°F (150°C) for that freshly-baked taste.

Make Ahead Options

These Soft and Chewy Italian Almond Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts and can save you time during busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by shaping the dough into balls and refrigerating them in an airtight container. This not only helps meld the flavors but also maintains their delightful chewiness. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll them in flaked almonds and pop them in a preheated oven; they’ll come out just as delicious! If you prefer, you can also freeze the shaped cookie dough balls for up to 3 months—allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge before baking for fresh, warm treats anytime!

Expert Tips for Italian Almond Cookies

Room Temperature Egg Whites: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better whipping and volume, resulting in lighter cookies.
Avoid Overmixing: Fold the dry ingredients into the whipped egg whites gently. Overmixing can deflate the egg whites, leading to denser cookies instead of the desired soft texture.
Precise Measurements: Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements of almond flour and sugar; consistency in the dough will yield uniform Italian Almond Cookies.
Cooling Time: Don’t rush the cooling process. Allowing cookies to rest on the baking sheet briefly helps maintain their chewy center before transferring them to the wire rack.
Baking Sheet Prep: Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps achieve that perfect texture while baking your amaretti.

Italian Almond Cookie Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this Italian almond cookie recipe your own; your taste buds will thank you!

Nut Swap: Use ground pistachios instead of almonds for a rich, distinct flavor twist that still delivers deliciousness. The change adds a vibrant green hue, making for a stunning presentation.
Chocolate Lovers: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients to create heavenly chocolate almond cookies. This variation marries nutty and chocolatey flavors beautifully, appealing to everyone’s sweet tooth!
Citrus Zing: Incorporate zest from 1 lemon or orange into the batter for a bright, refreshing twist. This adds a lovely contrast to the sweet almond flavor, elevating each bite to a new level!
Coconut Bliss: Mix in ¼ cup of shredded coconut for a touch of tropical flair. These chewy coconut almond cookies will remind you of sun-soaked beaches and blissful vacations.
Spice It Up: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom for aromatic warmth and depth. Your kitchen will fill with delightful scents as they bake, creating a comforting atmosphere.
Mini Cookies: Make bite-sized versions by using a teaspoon for portioning instead of a cookie scoop. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings and keeping those cravings in check.
Sugary Toppings: Swap powdered sugar for a sprinkling of cinnamon sugar before baking for extra sweetness and crunch. This little change makes the cookies even more irresistible!
Extra Crunch: Replace flaked almonds with chopped hazelnuts for a unique texture and flavor profile. Hazelnuts offer a delightful earthiness that pairs perfectly with the almond goodness, making you want to indulge in just one more!

For more inspiring treats, check out our delightful Gluten Free Cookies and savor every bite!

Soft and Chewy Italian Almond Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of egg whites should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, use room temperature egg whites. This helps them whip into stiff peaks more easily, giving your Italian Almond Cookies that light and airy texture we adore.

How should I store the cookies to maintain freshness?
I recommend storing your Italian Almond Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can place them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they’re well-sealed to prevent drying out.

Can these cookies be frozen? If so, how?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Italian Almond Cookies, place them in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper between each cookie to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes for that freshly-baked taste.

What if my cookies turn out too dry or crumbly?
If your Italian Almond Cookies are too dry, it might be due to overbaking them or not incorporating enough moisture from the egg whites. Keep an eye on the baking time; they should have a light golden color and show some cracks on the surface. Next time, ensure the egg whites are whipped just until stiff peaks form, then gently fold in the ingredients to maintain that moisture.

Are these cookies suitable for people with almond allergies?
Unfortunately, these Italian Almond Cookies are not suitable for those with almond allergies as they rely heavily on almond flour and almond extract for their flavor. However, you could experiment with other nut flours such as hazelnut flour or ground sunflower seeds for a different recipe that caters to nut-free diets—although this will alter the signature almond taste.

What can I do to make these cookies even more flavorful?
The more the merrier! To elevate the almond flavor, consider adding a hint of citrus zest—like lemon or orange—for a refreshing twist. You can also substitute some almond flour with cocoa powder for a chocolatey version.