Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the charming kitchens of Italy with these irresistible Almond Paste Cookies! Imagine a cookie so delicate, so perfectly balanced between nutty richness and sweet elegance, that it practically melts in your mouth. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious kitchen novice, this recipe promises to turn an ordinary afternoon into an extraordinary taste experience that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 37 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 18 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond paste
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, break the almond paste into small pieces using a fork or your hands to ensure it's crumbly and soft.
- Add granulated sugar to the almond paste and mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.
- Crack the large egg into the mixture and add almond extract and salt. Mix until a uniform dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the dough into small round balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Gently flatten each cookie ball with the back of a fork, creating a crisscross pattern on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the icing, whisk together powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth and glossy. The consistency should be thick but still spreadable.
- Once cookies are completely cooled, drizzle or spread the icing over the top of each cookie using a spoon or piping bag.
- Allow the icing to set for about 15-20 minutes before serving or storing the cookies in an airtight container.
Tips
- Quality Matters: Use fresh, high-quality almond paste for the most intense and authentic flavor. The better your ingredients, the more spectacular your cookies will be.
- Room Temperature is Key: Ensure your egg and almond paste are at room temperature to create a smoother, more uniform dough.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the dough just until ingredients are combined to keep the cookies tender and light.
- Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop or weigh your dough balls to ensure even baking and consistent cookies.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the cookies cool completely before icing to prevent the glaze from melting and running off.
- Icing Consistency Tip: If your icing is too thick, add milk a few drops at a time. If it's too thin, add powdered sugar gradually.
- Storage Hack: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days, making them perfect for advance preparation or gifting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 15mg
