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## **Instructions**
### **1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet**
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure they bake evenly.
### **2. Mix the Ingredients**
In a medium bowl, combine the ground almonds, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined. Add the egg whites, almond extract, and vanilla extract (if using). Mix everything together until you have a thick, sticky dough. The dough should be pliable, not too runny, and hold together when pressed.
### **3. Shape the Cookies**
Once the dough is ready, take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about the size of a walnut (roughly 1 inch in diameter). Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie, as they will expand slightly as they bake. For a decorative touch, you can lightly press each cookie with the back of a spoon or your fingers to flatten them slightly.
### **4. Bake the Amaretti**
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the edges and slightly firm to the touch. Keep a close eye on them as baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven. The cookies should have a crisp exterior with a chewy center.
### **5. Cool and Serve**
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. The cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
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## **Why This Recipe Works**
– **Simple Ingredients**: With just a few pantry staples like almonds, egg whites, and sugar, these cookies come together quickly and easily.
– **Almond Flavor**: The combination of ground almonds and almond extract gives these cookies a rich, nutty flavor that almond lovers will adore.
– **Chewy Texture**: The egg whites provide the perfect texture, creating a soft and chewy center, while the sugar forms a slight crisp on the outside.
– **Naturally Gluten-Free**: Amaretti cookies are made with ground almonds, making them an excellent gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor or texture.
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## **Tips for Success**
– **Use Fresh Almonds**: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ground almonds. You can also grind whole almonds yourself if you prefer.
– **Egg Whites**: Make sure the egg whites are beaten just enough to form soft peaks, but not too stiff. This helps give the cookies their chewy texture.
– **Optional Powdered Sugar Dusting**: If you like, you can dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
– **Storage**: These cookies keep well in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just be sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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## **Variations to Try**
– **Chocolate-Amaretti**: For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate-flavored amaretti cookie.
– **Lemon-Amaretti**: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a citrusy kick that complements the almond flavor beautifully.
– **Nutty Amaretti**: Mix in some chopped hazelnuts or pistachios for extra crunch and flavor.
– **Dip in Chocolate**: For an indulgent treat, dip the cooled cookies in dark or white chocolate and let them set before serving.
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## **Conclusion**
**Amaretti Cookies** are the perfect treat for anyone who loves the rich, aromatic flavor of almonds. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a homemade gift, or a sweet addition to your holiday spread, these cookies check all the boxes. Their crisp exterior and chewy center make them utterly irresistible, and the fact that they are gluten-free makes them suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
With their simple ingredients, easy preparation, and beautiful presentation, these **Classic Italian Amaretti Cookies** will be a hit in any household. Try them today and enjoy a taste of Italy in every bite! 🍪🌰
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