When it comes to Italy’s rich culinary heritage, few treats capture the essence of traditional baking quite like the amaretti cookie. These crunchy, almond-flavored delights have been delighting taste buds for centuries, their origins steeped in the vibrant culture of the country’s various regions.
What are Amaretti Cookies?
Amaretti cookies, also known as amaretti di Saronno or amaretti di Sassello, are crisp, bite-sized morsels made primarily from sweet and bitter almonds, egg whites, and sugar. Their distinct flavor and texture come from the combination of these simple ingredients, expertly crafted through a centuries-old baking process.
The Origins of Amaretti
The exact origins of amaretti cookies are shrouded in legend, with several Italian regions claiming to be the birthplace of these beloved treats. One of the most widely accepted tales traces their roots back to the town of Sassello, nestled in the Ligurian Alps.
According to this legend, during the 17th century, a young couple was struggling to conceive a child, and as a last resort, they turned to a local nun known for her baking prowess. The nun crafted a special cookie made with almonds and sugar, said to be an aphrodisiac, and presented it to the couple. Whether by divine intervention or the power of almonds, the couple soon welcomed a healthy child, and the amaretti cookie became a symbol of good fortune and fertility in the region.
Regional Variations
While the core ingredients remain the same, each region in Italy has its own distinct take on the amaretti cookie. In Sardinia, for instance, the cookies are often flavored with lemon zest, while in Apulia, they incorporate the region’s famous amaretto liqueur.
One of the most renowned variations is the amaretti di Saronno, originating from the town of the same name near Milan. These cookies are renowned for their soft, chewy texture and a distinct almond aroma, often coated in a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Amaretti Cookies in Culinary Tradition
Beyond their delightful flavor and crumbly texture, amaretti cookies have also played a significant role in Italian culinary tradition. They are a staple ingredient in many classic desserts, including the iconic tiramisu and the decadent amaretti trifle.
In some regions, amaretti cookies are even incorporated into savory dishes, adding a subtle almond flavor and crunch to meat-based stews and sauces. This versatility has cemented their place in the pantheon of Italian culinary treasures.
Whether enjoyed on their own or as part of a more elaborate dish, amaretti cookies remain a beloved treat that encapsulates the rich history, diverse regional influences, and unwavering passion for good food that defines Italian culture. With their timeless flavor and enduring appeal, these little almond delights continue to delight generations of sweet-toothed enthusiasts worldwide.
Delightful Amaretti Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups super-fine almond flour
- 1 cup sugar or sugar substitute for keto version.
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 3 large egg whites (1/3 cup)
- 1 tsp. pure almond extract
- 1/3 cup icing sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone baking mat.
- Whisk the almond flour, granulated sugar and salt in a large bowl to combine. Beat the egg whites in a medium bowl with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, about 1 minute 30 seconds. Add the almond extract and beat to combine. Fold the egg whites into the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Put the icing sugar in a small bowl. Using a 1-tablespoon scoop, portion the dough and roll into balls. Toss each ball in the sugar, coating thoroughly. Arrange the balls 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake, rotating the baking sheet halfway through, until golden brown and the tops crack, 23 to 25 minutes. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
