Almond paste cookies: a delicious Italian confectionery

Discover the exquisite taste of traditional Italian almond paste cookies, a delicious treat known as “Paste alle Mandorle”. Made with finely ground almond flour and a hint of almond essence, these cookies offer a wonderfully aromatic and sweet flavor profile, enriched with the light zest of lemon. Soft, chewy and dusted with powdered sugar, these cookies are a simple yet luxurious treat that is sure to charm anyone who loves almond desserts.

Why you'll love it: Almond paste cookies are perfect for those who enjoy refined flavors and textures in their treats. Using almond flour not only imparts a rich, nutty flavor, but also makes these cookies gluten-free. Added almond extract enhances the depth of the almond flavor, while lemon zest provides a subtle freshness that contrasts with the sweetness. These biscuits aren't too sweet, making them a perfect companion for your afternoon tea or coffee.

Perfect occasion: These cookies are excellent for special occasions such as holidays, family gatherings or as a sophisticated treat at a tea party. They are also wonderful as homemade gifts during the holiday season, elegantly packaged to show off their delicate appearance. Whether it's Christmas, Easter or a special family dinner, these marzipan cookies will add a touch of elegance to any event.

Decorating Tips: For a nice finish, press a candied cherry or almond into the center of each cookie before baking. This not only adds visual appeal but also complements the almond flavor. After baking, a generous dusting of powdered sugar will give these cookies a visually appealing, festive, snowy look. Serve them on a vintage platter or lace-lined basket for an extra touch of charm.

Ingredients:

• 150 grams of almond flour
• 100 grams of sugar
• 2 egg whites
• Half a bottle of almond essence
• The zest of half a lemon
• Powdered sugar for sprinkling
• Candied cherries and almonds for decoration

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the almond flour and sugar, breaking up any lumps in the almond flour. If almond flour is not available, you can make your own by finely grinding peeled almonds.
2. In another bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites until frothy and add a few drops of almond essence.
3. Gradually add the frothy egg whites to the almond flour mixture, stirring until you have a soft, sticky dough. Adjust the consistency with additional egg white or almond flour if necessary.
4. Pour the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle.
5. Prepare a baking tray by pouring a few drops of water onto it and covering it with parchment paper to prevent the paper from moving.
6. Pour the mixture into small cookie shapes onto the prepared tray.
7. Chill the shaped cookies in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
8. Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit). Once cooled, sprinkle the cookies with powdered sugar.
9. Bake the cookies for 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
10. Let the cookies cool completely before eating them.

Let yourself be tempted by the delicious taste of these almond paste cookies, a perfect treat that combines tradition and the pure pleasure of cooking!