Delicious almond and marzipan biscuits: crispy on the outside, soft on the inside

These Marzipan Almond Cookies are a delicious treat that combines the sweet and nutty flavors of marzipan and almonds into the perfect cookie experience. Soft and chewy on the inside with a slightly crunchy exterior, these cookies offer a wonderful textural contrast that makes them irresistible. With their longevity and delicious taste, they are a great choice for cookie lovers looking for something uniquely delicious and satisfying.

Why you'll love it: The dual texture of these cookies is a standout feature: you'll love the crisp edges that give way to a chewy, rich almond paste middle. Marzipan not only imparts a subtle almond flavor, but also keeps the cookies soft and chewy. These cookies are not only a treat for the palate, but are also very durable, making them ideal for gifting or storing for extended enjoyment.

Perfect occasion: These Almond Marzipan Cookies are perfect for the holiday season, as a treat at holiday cookie exchanges, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. They are also fantastic for afternoon tea, accompanied by a hot cup of coffee or tea, providing a gentle respite from your day. Their durability makes them suitable for sending care packages or taking on picnics or long trips.

Decorating Tips: After baking, while the cookies are still warm, consider sprinkling them with an extra layer of powdered sugar for a snowy, festive look. You can also press a whole almond into the center of each cookie before baking for added crunch and presentation. If you're feeling creative, drizzle them with a thin glaze or dark chocolate for a decadent touch.

Ingredients:

• 200 g of almond paste
• 100g caster sugar, plus a little for rolling
• 60g caster sugar
• 1 egg white
• 150 g ground almonds
• 25g flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Almond essence (optional)

1. In a bowl, mix the caster sugar, almond powder, flour and baking powder.
2. Crumble the almond paste into the dry ingredients. Add the egg white and a few drops of almond essence if you are using it. Mix well, preferably with your hands, until you obtain a homogeneous dough.
3. Form the dough into 25 g balls. Flatten each ball slightly to form a cookie shape.
4. Roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat. Use a honey spoon or fork to press a design onto each cookie, adding a nice aesthetic touch.
5. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 12 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
7. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these Almond Marzipan Cookies, a truly delicious treat that combines simplicity with a luxurious flavor profile!