Italian Pignoli Almond Cookies
These delightful Italian Pignoli Cookies showcase the rich flavors of almond and the delightful crunch of pine nuts. The almond paste combines beautifully with sugar and a touch of salt to create a thick, luscious dough that is both simple and satisfying to prepare. Each cookie is generously coated with pignoli, delivering a unique texture and nutty flavor that is sure to impress. Perfect for summer gatherings, these cookies pair wonderfully with fresh berries or a scoop of gelato, making them a delectable light dessert option. With their elegant appearance and irresistible taste, these cookies are sure to become a favorite for any occasion.
12
Servings
150
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Almond paste
1 (8-ounce can)
Granulated sugar
1/2 (cup)
Egg white
1 (large)
Salt
1 (pinch)
Pine nuts (pignoli)
1/3 (cup)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2
In the bowl of a food processor, combine the almond paste, granulated sugar, egg white, and a pinch of salt. Process the mixture until it is smooth and resembles a thick paste.
3
Pour the pignoli (pine nuts) into a shallow bowl. Using a teaspoon, scoop out small amounts of the dough and drop them into the bowl of pignoli. Gently roll each piece of dough in the pine nuts to coat them completely.
4
Once coated, form the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they have enough space to spread during baking.
5
Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 12 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through to ensure even baking. The cookies are ready when they are lightly golden on top but still soft to the touch.
6
Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
Nutrition Information
8.5
Fat
13.3
Carbs
3
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Italian Pignoli Almond Cookies?
Italian Pignoli Almond Cookies are traditional treats made with almond paste and coated in pine nuts, known for their rich flavor and unique texture.
What is the main ingredient in these cookies?
The primary ingredient is almond paste, which creates a thick and luscious dough.
Are pignoli cookies gluten-free?
Based on this recipe's ingredients (almond paste, sugar, egg white, salt, and pine nuts), these cookies do not contain flour and are naturally gluten-free.
How should I store these almond cookies?
You can store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze Italian Pignoli Cookies?
Yes, these cookies can be frozen for up to 1 month.
At what temperature should I bake the cookies?
The oven should be preheated and set to 350°F (175°C).
How long does it take to bake pignoli cookies?
The baking time is between 8 to 12 minutes.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 150 calories.
What are pignoli?
Pignoli is the Italian word for pine nuts, which are used to coat these cookies.
Do I need a food processor for this recipe?
Yes, a food processor is used to combine the almond paste, sugar, egg white, and salt until smooth.
How do I get the pine nuts to stick to the cookie dough?
Drop small scoops of dough into a bowl of pine nuts and gently roll them until they are completely coated.
Should I toast the pine nuts before adding them to the dough?
No, the pine nuts will toast and turn lightly golden while the cookies bake in the oven.
What is the texture of a Pignoli Cookie?
They have a soft and chewy interior with a crunchy, nutty exterior from the pine nuts.
Can I substitute almond paste with almond meal?
It is not recommended, as almond paste has a specific moisture content and consistency required for the dough.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 12 servings.
How do I know when the cookies are finished baking?
They are ready when they are lightly golden on top but still feel soft to the touch.
Should I rotate the pans while baking?
Yes, rotating the pans halfway through the baking time ensures even browning.
What are some serving suggestions for these cookies?
They pair wonderfully with fresh berries or a scoop of gelato.
Are these cookies suitable for summer dessert?
Yes, they are considered a great light dessert option for summer gatherings.
What size should I make the dough balls?
Use a teaspoon to scoop small amounts of dough before rolling them in the pine nuts.
Do I need to line the baking sheets?
Yes, you should line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Can I double this recipe for a party?
Yes, the ingredients can easily be doubled to accommodate more guests.
Why are my cookies still soft after baking?
Pignoli cookies are meant to remain soft to the touch even when they are fully cooked.
How much fat is in one serving?
There is approximately 8.5 grams of fat per serving.
Is there protein in these cookies?
Yes, each serving provides about 3 grams of protein.
What type of sugar is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.
Can I use the whole egg?
The recipe specifically requires only one large egg white.
How much salt should I add?
Only a small pinch of salt is needed to balance the flavors.
How long should the cookies cool before moving them?
Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized as a Dessert.