Japanese Almond Cookies

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the traditional Italian amaretti cookies with Japanese and Chinese flavors. We incorporate sakura extract for a delicate floral touch and matcha powder for a vibrant green color, giving the cookies a distinct Japanese twist. These modifications create a unique fusion of flavors that cater to the Japanese and Chinese cuisine preferences. We alse have the original recipe for Amaretti (Piedmont), so you can check it out.

• 200g (1 ¾ cups) almond flour 200g (1 ¾ cups) almond flour
• 150g (1 ¼ cups) powdered sugar 150g (1 ¼ cups) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons matcha powder 2 tablespoons matcha powder
• 2 teaspoons sakura extract 2 teaspoons sakura extract
• 2 egg whites 2 egg whites
• 50g (¼ cup) granulated sugar 50g (¼ cup) granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Sliced almonds, for garnish Sliced almonds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 80 kcal / 335 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 7g, 6g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.02g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 160°C (325°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, powdered sugar, matcha powder, and sakura extract.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and salt, and continue whisking until stiff peaks form.
4. 4.
   Gently fold the egg white mixture into the dry ingredients until well combined.
5. 5.
   Using a spoon or a piping bag, drop small portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. 6.
   Garnish each cookie with a sliced almond on top.
7. 7.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond flour — Ensure you use finely ground almond flour for the best texture in the cookies.
• Matcha powder — Use high-quality matcha powder for a vibrant green color and authentic flavor.
• Sakura extract — Adjust the amount of sakura extract according to your preference for the floral note. Start with a small amount and add more if desired.

Tips & Tricks

• For a stronger matcha flavor, you can increase the amount of matcha powder.
• If you don't have sakura extract, you can substitute it with a few drops of rose water for a floral touch.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture.
• These cookies make a lovely gift for special occasions or as a homemade treat.

Serving advice

Serve these Japanese Almond Cookies alongside a cup of green tea or matcha latte for a delightful pairing. They are also perfect as a sweet ending to a Japanese or Chinese-inspired meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a beautiful Japanese ceramic plate or a lacquerware tray to enhance their visual appeal. Dust some powdered sugar or matcha powder on top for an elegant touch.