Epirotic Almond Cookies

Ingredients

While the original Mandorlini del ponte cookies from Italian cuisine are typically made with a combination of almonds and hazelnuts, the Epirotic adaptation focuses solely on almonds. The Epirotic version also uses local ingredients and flavors, giving the cookies a distinct Epirotic taste. Additionally, the Epirotic Almond Cookies are less sweet compared to the original Italian version, allowing the natural flavors of the almonds to take center stage. We alse have the original recipe for Mandorlini del ponte, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) almond flour 2 cups (240g) almond flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories: 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat: 9g (1g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 8g (6g sugars)
• 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 almond flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla extract, eggs, and olive oil.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Take small portions of the dough and shape them into small balls. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
6. 6.
   Gently press down on each ball to flatten it slightly.
7. 7.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
9. 9.
   Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar.
10. 10.
    Serve and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond flour — Make sure to use finely ground almond flour for the best texture in the cookies.
• Extra virgin olive oil — Use a good quality olive oil to enhance the flavor of the cookies.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced almond flavor, you can add a few drops of almond extract to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can increase the amount of granulated sugar to your taste.
• To add a touch of elegance, you can drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for several days.
• These cookies make a lovely homemade gift for friends and family.

Serving advice

Serve the Epirotic Almond Cookies alongside a cup of Greek coffee or as a sweet treat after a meal. They are also perfect for afternoon tea or as a snack on the go.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a platter and dust them with an extra sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. You can also garnish the platter with a few whole almonds for added visual appeal.