Teresa's Recipes
Ricciarelli - Italian Almond Cookies
Ricciarelli are delightful Italian almond cookies, originating from the charming city of Siena. These soft and chewy treats are a holiday favorite, boasting a rich almond flavor complemented by the bright notes of orange. With their delicate texture and a dusting of powdered sugar, Ricciarelli are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. Their history dates back to the Renaissance, where they were a luxurious treat for nobility. Each bite evokes a sense of tradition and warmth, making them a beloved part of Italian culture.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Almond flour
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 cup, plus extra for dusting Powdered sugar
- 3 large Egg whites
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon Almond extract
- from one orange Zest of one orange
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 24
- Dish Type: Dessert
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5g
- Carbs: 15g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Sugar: 10g
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended.
- In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This may take about 3-5 minutes.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the almond flour mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites.
- Add the almond extract, vanilla extract, and orange zest to the mixture, folding them in until fully incorporated.
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Dust the tops of the cookies with additional powdered sugar before baking.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. The centers should remain soft.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer preservation.