Amaretti Cookies with a North American Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we have incorporated North American flavors by replacing some of the traditional ingredients with maple syrup and pecans. The addition of maple syrup adds a distinct sweetness and depth of flavor, while the toasted pecans provide a delightful crunch and nuttiness. These modifications give the cookies a unique twist that caters to the North American palate. We alse have the original recipe for Amaretti di Gallarate, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) almond flour 2 cups (240g) almond flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (60g) finely chopped pecans, toasted 1/2 cup (60g) finely chopped pecans, toasted
• 2 large egg whites 2 large egg whites
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

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

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and toasted pecans.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg whites, maple syrup, almond extract, and salt until frothy.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined and a sticky dough forms.
5. 5.
   Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls.
6. 6.
   Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. 7.
   Gently press down on each dough ball to slightly flatten it.
8. 8.
   Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges and set in the center.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond flour — Make sure to use blanched almond flour for a smooth texture in the cookies.
• Maple syrup — Opt for pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
• Pecans — Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle the cooled cookies with a maple glaze made from powdered sugar and maple syrup.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• These cookies make a lovely homemade gift for friends and family.

Serving advice

Serve these Maple Pecan Amaretti Cookies alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter or in a cookie jar to showcase their golden brown color and cracked surface. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch.