Zambian Almond Cookies

Ingredients

Zambian Almond Cookies differ from the original Italian Amaretti Casperiani in terms of flavor profile and spices used. While the Italian version focuses on the natural sweetness of almonds, the Zambian adaptation incorporates warm spices like cinnamon and cardamom to enhance the flavor. This gives the Zambian Almond Cookies a unique and distinct taste that reflects the culinary traditions of Zambia. We alse have the original recipe for Amaretti Casperiani, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) ground almonds 2 cups (240g) ground almonds
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 2 egg whites 2 egg whites
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 13g, 11g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground almonds, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and cardamom.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt until frothy.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the frothy egg whites to the almond mixture and mix until well combined.
5. 5.
   Take small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
6. 6.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and slightly cracked on the surface.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
8. 8.
   Once cooled, dust the Zambian Almond Cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
9. 9.
   Serve and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Ensure that the ground almonds are finely powdered for a smooth texture in the cookies.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crunch, you can sprinkle some chopped almonds on top of the cookies before baking.
• If you prefer a stronger spice flavor, you can increase the amount of cinnamon and cardamom according to your taste.
• Store the Zambian Almond Cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture.

Serving advice

Serve Zambian Almond Cookies as a delightful accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a wonderful addition to dessert platters or as a sweet treat during festive occasions.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Zambian Almond Cookies on a decorative plate and dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also place a few whole almonds around the cookies for a visually appealing presentation.