Susamielli - Traditional Italian Almond Cookies

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) almond flour 2 cups (240g) almond flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) honey 1/2 cup (120ml) honey
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar, for dusting 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 0.6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 12g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, granulated sugar, honey, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, orange zest, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring continuously, until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for a few minutes until smooth.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a long rope, about 1/2 inch (1.3cm) thick.
5. 5.
   Shape each rope into a twisted knot, tucking the ends underneath. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
7. 7.
   Bake the Susamielli for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
9. 9.
   Once cooled, dust the Susamielli with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch.
10. 10.
    Serve and enjoy these delightful Italian almond cookies!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond flour — Ensure that the almond flour is finely ground for a smooth texture in the cookies.
• Honey — Use a high-quality honey to enhance the flavor of the Susamielli.
• Lemon and orange zest — Grate the zest directly from the fruits for the freshest and most vibrant citrus flavor.
• Ground cinnamon and cloves — Use freshly ground spices for the best aroma and taste.
• All-purpose flour — Measure the flour accurately to achieve the desired consistency of the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle the cooled Susamielli with a thin glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture.
• Susamielli can be enjoyed year-round, but they are particularly popular during festive seasons and special occasions.
• If you prefer a stronger citrus flavor, you can increase the amount of lemon and orange zest.
• These cookies make a wonderful homemade gift when packaged in a decorative box or tin.

Serving advice

Serve Susamielli alongside a cup of freshly brewed espresso or a glass of Vin Santo, a sweet Italian dessert wine. These cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones during afternoon tea or as a delightful treat after dinner.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Susamielli on a beautiful platter, dusted with powdered sugar. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a twist of lemon zest for an elegant touch. The intricate twisted knots of the cookies create a visually appealing display that will impress your guests.