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Chewy Amaretti (Italian Almond Cookies)
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Chewy Amaretti Recipe

Chewy Amaretti or Italian Almond cookies are a must-have on every Italian cookie tray. These cookies are crisp on the outside but chewy on the inside.
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian
Keyword chewy amaretti, amaretti, Italian cookies, Italian almond cookies
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 71kcal
Author Nadia Fazio

Ingredients

  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp Amaretto extract
  • 1/2 tsp almond extract
  • 1 3/4 cups almond flour
  • 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • 2tbsp. powdered sugar for dredging
  • almonds or maraschino cherries for topping optional
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, beat the egg and sugar. Stir in the Amaretto and almond extracts.
  • Add the almond flour and stir until combined. Stir in the flour and baking powder until a firm dough is formed.
  • Shape scant tablespoonfuls of dough into a ball. Lightly dredge in the powdered sugar, shaking off excess sugar. Place on baking sheet and top with an almond or maraschino cherry, if desired. Continue with remaining dough.
  • Bake for approximately 15 minutes until lightly browned underneath and the tops of the cookies are crackled. Cool on a rack before serving.

Notes

 

  • Almond flour may be substituted with finely ground blanched almonds.
  • If you don't have access to amaretto extract, you may substitute with Amaretto liqueur. Use from 1-2 tablespoons as the amaretto extract is more concentrated.  You may also have to add a bit more almond flour in order to achieve a firmer dough. 
  • The key to getting a cookie with a crisp exterior and chewy interior is the correct dough texture. I tried numerous times and got flat and crispy cookies.  Apparently my dough was too soft. With these cookies a firm dough results in a cookie that retains its shape and remains chewy on the inside.
  • Please note that the baking time may vary according to your oven. I suggest you begin checking your cookies after 12 minutes of baking. They are ready when lightly browned underneath and golden and crackly on the top. 
  • Amaretti may be frozen in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
  • Please note that the nutritional information provided is approximate and may vary according to exact ingredients used.

Nutrition

Calories: 71kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 8mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 10IU | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1mg