Name: Delicious Soft Amaretti Cookies: Easy Homemade Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups almond flour (gives the cookies their signature texture and flavor.); 1 pinch salt (enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.); 1 cup powdered sugar (adds sweetness and a delightful smoothness to the dough.); 3 large egg whites (the key to achieving that soft and chewy texture.); 1 teaspoon pure almond extract (amplifies the classic amaretto essence that makes these cookies special.); 1 zest lemon (infuses a refreshing brightness into the cookie's flavor.); 36 pieces almonds without skin (for presentation and extra crunch.); 0.5 cup sugar (for rolling the cookies to create a sweet, sparkly finish.)

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There’s something enchanting about the first bite of a Soft Amaretti Cookie—its delicate crunch giving way to a tender, almond-infused center that dances on your taste buds. Picture this: the rich, sweet aroma of almond extract mingling with the zesty brightness of lemon zest wafting through your kitchen as you whip up this delightful treat. I was inspired to create these cookies after a glorious afternoon rummaging through my pantry, where I stumbled upon a stash of almond flour begging to be transformed into something spectacular.

Perfect for those cozy evenings or a sunny afternoon with friends, these cookies are not only simple to craft but also bring a touch of elegance to any occasion. Whether served alongside a cup of coffee or packed as a sweet surprise for a picnic, they are bound to impress. With just a few ingredients and only 30 minutes of your time, you’ll have a batch of these irresistible delights ready to enjoy. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Why are Soft Amaretti Cookies so irresistible?

Delightfully Simple: With just a few ingredients, you’ll whip up these exquisite cookies in no time.

Charming Flavor: The combination of almond extract and lemon zest creates a taste that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Perfect Texture: Experience the contrast of crispy edges and a soft, chewy center that melts in your mouth.

Versatile Treat: Ideal for any occasion—coffee dates, picnics, or as a delightful homemade gift. Need more sweet ideas? Check out our delicious cookie recipes.

Just 30 Minutes: A quick and easy recipe that fits perfectly into your busy lifestyle without compromising on flavor!

Soft Amaretti Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• 2 ½ cups almond flour – gives the cookies their signature texture and flavor.
• 1 pinch salt – enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – adds sweetness and a delightful smoothness to the dough.
• 3 large egg whites – the key to achieving that soft and chewy texture.
• Zest of 1 lemon – infuses a refreshing brightness into the cookie’s flavor.
• 1 teaspoon pure almond extract – amplifies the classic amaretto essence that makes these cookies special.

Optional Garnishes
• 36 almonds without skin – these can be placed on top for a lovely presentation and extra crunch.
• ½ cup sugar – use this for rolling the cookies to create a sweet, sparkly finish.

How to Make Soft Amaretti Cookies

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Position the rack in the center and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour and powdered sugar. Add the lemon zest and a pinch of salt, ensuring there are no lumps. This mixture forms the delicious base for your cookies.
Beat Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they reach a soft peak stage—a fluffy, cloud-like consistency. Gently whisk in the almond extract to enhance the flavor of your cookies.
Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough is moist and well integrated, but be cautious not to overmix; you want those lovely textures to shine through.
Shape Cookies: With either your hands or a piping bag, shape the cookies. If using hands, roll a tablespoon of dough in sugar and place it on the lined baking sheet. Alternatively, pipe small rounds for a uniform look and sprinkle the tops with sugar.
Add Almonds: If desired, place a whole almond in the center of each cookie for an elegant touch. This step adds a lovely crunch and enhances presentation.
Bake: Bake the cookies for about 15 minutes, or until they start to turn slightly golden brown. They should be perfectly baked while maintaining their soft centers.
Cool and Store: Allow the cookies to cool on a cooling rack. Once cooled, remove them from the parchment and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Optional: Serve these cookies with a lovely cup of tea for a delightful pairing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Soft Amaretti Cookies?

Indulging in the delicate sweetness of Soft Amaretti Cookies opens the door to a world of delightful pairings that enhance your homemade treat experience.

Rich Espresso: The bold flavor of espresso perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast to each bite. It’s a match made in coffee heaven!
Creamy Gelato: Pair these cookies with a scoop of almond or vanilla gelato to amplify the deliciously nutty flavors. The creamy texture adds richness and enhances the overall experience.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing burst that complements the almond notes in the cookies, making your dessert feel lighter and more vibrant.
Decadent Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your Soft Amaretti Cookies adds an indulgent layer that pairs beautifully with their chewy texture. It’s an irresistible combination!
Honeyed Yogurt: For a healthy twist, serve with a dollop of honey-sweetened Greek yogurt. The creaminess and slight tartness create a lovely balance and elevate your treat.
Chamomile Tea: The soothing notes of chamomile tea harmonize with the almond extract, making for a serene afternoon experience. Sip and savor this delightful duo!
Minty Mojito: If you’re in the mood for something refreshing, a mint mojito’s zesty and fresh flavors pair beautifully with the sweet, nutty cookies. It’s a fun way to celebrate!
Classic Milk: You can never go wrong with a glass of cold milk—it softens the sweetness and brings joy straight from childhood. Simple, yet satisfying!

Soft Amaretti Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Soft Amaretti Cookies! Here are some fun ideas to make them uniquely yours.

Gluten-Free: Substitute almond flour for a gluten-free blend to keep these cookies soft and delicious.
Citrus Twist: Swap the lemon zest for orange or lime zest for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens each bite. The zesty aroma will fill your kitchen with a vibrant appeal.
Choco Delight: Mix in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey surprise inside each cookie. The combination of almond and chocolate creates an indulgent treat!
Nutty Accents: Add ½ cup of finely chopped hazelnuts or walnuts to the dough for a delightful crunch that complements the almond flavor beautifully.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom into the dry ingredients for a warm, aromatic twist that elevates the taste experience.
Sugar Coating Options: Roll the cookies in coconut sugar or finely chopped nuts instead of granulated sugar before baking for a unique and appealing texture.
Berry Infusion: For a fruity flair, fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries or cherries into the dough. Their sweetness pairs nicely with the nuttiness of the almond.
Heat Factor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger for a surprising spicy kick, creating a delightful contrast to the sweetness. This variation will warm your spirit and awaken your taste buds!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Amaretti Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts wanting to streamline their baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the dry ingredients and folding in the whipped egg whites. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep everything fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply shape the cookies and bake them according to the recipe instructions. For even more time-saving benefits, you can roll the shaped cookies in sugar ahead of time and freeze them for up to 3 months. Just bake them from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time to achieve that delightful soft center and crisp exterior—deliciousness guaranteed!

How to Store and Freeze Soft Amaretti Cookies

Room Temperature: Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy the cookies later, freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To refresh frozen cookies, let them thaw on the counter for 1-2 hours. For warm cookies, pop them in a preheated 325°F oven for about 5 minutes.

Make-Ahead: These delightful Soft Amaretti Cookies can be prepared in advance, baked, and stored, making them perfect for upcoming gatherings or sweet surprises!

Tips for the Best Soft Amaretti Cookies

• Don’t Overmix: When folding in the egg whites, mix just until combined to maintain the cookies’ light texture. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies.

• Room Temperature Eggs: For the best volume, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature. Cold egg whites don’t whip as well, affecting the softness of your Soft Amaretti Cookies.

• Consistent Size: Aim for uniform cookie sizes when shaping or piping. This ensures even baking, resulting in a perfect texture across the batch.

• Sugar Coating: Rolling the cookies in sugar before baking adds a delightful sweetness and a pretty sparkle. Don’t skip this step for that extra touch!

• Watch the Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary in temperature, so check for a golden-brown edge while keeping the center soft.

Soft Amaretti Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my almonds are fresh?
Absolutely! Fresh almonds should be firm and have no dark spots or an off smell. When choosing almond flour, look for a light color and a soft texture, with no lumps. If they have a rancid smell or taste, it’s best to discard them.

What’s the best way to store Soft Amaretti Cookies?
To maintain their delightful texture, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Keep them away from heat and moisture; a cool, dry place is ideal. If you need to, you can layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Can I freeze Soft Amaretti Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze, place the completely cool cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw on the counter for 1-2 hours, or pop them in a preheated 325°F oven for about 5 minutes for a warm treat!

What if my cookie dough is too dry?
Oh no! If your dough seems too dry, try gently folding in a tiny bit of egg white (1-2 teaspoons) until the desired consistency is reached. This helps to moisten the dough without overworking it. Remember, do it gradually, as we want that soft and chewy texture!

Are there any allergy considerations with Soft Amaretti Cookies?
Yes, indeed! These cookies are made with almond flour and egg whites, making them unsuitable for those with nut allergies. For those with egg allergies, consider using aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a substitute for egg whites. Use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for every egg white needed.

What can I add to make these cookies more festive?
Very! You can enhance your Soft Amaretti Cookies by adding a splash of vanilla or orange extract, or even incorporating mixed spices like cinnamon or cardamom for a festive twist. Just remember to keep the flavor balanced, so it complements the almond and lemon zest beautifully!