If you are on the hunt for a delightful treat that combines rich almond flavor with a perfectly tender yet delightfully chewy texture, look no further than this Chewy Italian Almond Paste Cookies Recipe. These cookies bring the warmth of traditional Italian baking right to your kitchen, offering a subtle sweetness balanced by fragrant almond and vanilla notes. Each bite melts in your mouth with a luscious softness that makes these cookies truly irresistible, whether enjoyed with afternoon tea or as a charming dessert to share with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chewy Italian Almond Paste Cookies Recipe relies on a handful of simple ingredients, each one playing a crucial role in crafting the cookie’s signature texture and flavor. By combining almond paste’s natural richness with just the right touch of vanilla and almond extracts, these cookies achieve a perfect aroma and taste that is both comforting and elegant.
- Almond paste: The star ingredient that brings moistness and authentic almond flavor throughout the cookie.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb in the final cookie.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cookie’s chewy texture.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor depth with its warm, sweet aroma.
- Almond extract: Intensifies the almond taste, making it unmistakable and vibrant.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure while keeping the cookie tender and not too dense.
- Baking powder: Gives a subtle lift, helping the cookies stay soft with a slight rise.
- Powdered sugar: Used for dusting, it adds a delicate touch of sweetness and an inviting finish.
How to Make Chewy Italian Almond Paste Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is just right to bake the cookies evenly so they come out soft in the center with gently golden edges. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix Almond Paste and Sugar
Place the almond paste and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Using an electric mixer or sturdy spoon, mix them together until the mixture is uniform and slightly lighter in color. This step helps break down the almond paste lumps and ensures even sweetness throughout the dough.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Extracts
Next, add the eggs along with vanilla and almond extracts to the almond paste mixture. Beat until smooth and silky. These liquids not only bind the dough but also infuse the cookies with their warm, inviting flavors that define this recipe.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and baking powder. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and your cookies rise just enough without losing their chewy nature.
Step 5: Fold Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture
Gently fold the flour mixture into the almond paste batter. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; you want just enough blending to combine everything without developing the gluten too much, preserving the cookie’s tender, chewy texture.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them sufficiently apart as these cookies will spread slightly. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges have a lovely golden hue but the centers remain soft. This exact timing is key to keeping that perfect chewiness.
Step 7: Cool and Dust
Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. Once they have set, dust them generously with powdered sugar. This finishing touch not only beautifies the cookies but also adds a slight, pleasant sweetness that complements the almond flavor splendidly.
How to Serve Chewy Italian Almond Paste Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar is traditional and delicious, but you can also experiment with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for an elegant twist. A few slivered almonds on top before baking add extra texture and visual appeal, accentuating that nutty crunch.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of espresso, cappuccino, or a glass of sweet dessert wine like Vin Santo to embrace the full Italian experience. For a wholesome snack option, serve alongside fresh berries or a mild cheese platter that balances sweetness and savory notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies in a decorative tin or on a polished wooden board for a rustic touch. For gatherings, stack with parchment paper in between layers and tie with twine for an irresistible homemade gift. You can also sandwich two cookies together with a bit of mascarpone or honey-infused cream for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your Chewy Italian Almond Paste Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They maintain their chewiness for up to 4 days, making them a dependable favorite to bake in advance for parties or weekday treats.
Freezing
These cookies freeze wonderfully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When stored this way, they keep their flavor and texture for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
If you’re craving freshly baked warmth, gently reheat the cookies in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This revives their softness and releases those gorgeous almond aromas all over again without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I substitute almond paste with marzipan?
Marzipan is sweeter and denser than almond paste, so while you can use it, expect the cookies to be sweeter and potentially less chewy. Adjust the sugar accordingly and monitor baking time to avoid over-browning.
Why did my cookies turn out crumbly instead of chewy?
Overbaking is the most common reason. For chewy Italian almond paste cookies, bake just until edges are golden but centers are still soft. Also, avoid overmixing the dough, which can create a tougher texture.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute with a blend of gluten-free flours designed for baking, but results may vary slightly in texture.
Can I add chopped nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Adding chopped almonds or chocolate chips can add a wonderful crunch or gooey contrast. Just fold them in gently before baking to keep the signature chewiness intact.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your dough isn’t too warm when scooping onto the baking sheet, and use parchment or silicone mats to help cookies hold their shape better. Chilling the dough briefly before baking can also control spreading.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Chewy Italian Almond Paste Cookies Recipe that invites you back for one more bite. Whether you’re new to baking almond-flavored treats or a seasoned enthusiast, this recipe strikes the perfect chord of flavor, texture, and ease. I encourage you to give these cookies a try—they make any moment sweeter and more memorable.
Print
Chewy Italian Almond Paste Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
These Chewy Italian Almond Paste Cookies are a delightful treat featuring a rich almond flavor and a chewy texture. Made with almond paste, these cookies are sweetened perfectly and enhanced with vanilla and almond extracts, making them a perfect dessert or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 2 cups almond paste
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For Finishing
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the cookies evenly.
- Combine Almond Paste and Sugar: In a large bowl, mix the almond paste and granulated sugar together until well incorporated and smooth.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract into the almond paste mixture until the dough is smooth and homogeneous.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder to evenly distribute the leavening agent.
- Fold Dry Ingredients Into Wet: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the almond paste mixture, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Portion Dough: Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them adequately for spreading during baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden, indicating they are perfectly cooked but still chewy inside.
- Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack, then dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch before serving.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the dough after adding the flour to keep the cookies chewy.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
- For a stronger almond flavor, you can add a little more almond extract but avoid overdoing it to prevent bitterness.
