Sicilian-Inspired Almond & Cherry Cookies
Recipe Overview
Overview
Baking can sometimes feel intimidating, but these Sicilian-Inspired Almond & Cherry Cookies are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delightful. The use of almond flour not only gives these cookies a unique flavor but also makes them gluten-free, which is a bonus for those with dietary restrictions. The Luxardo cherries add a touch of luxury and a burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the nutty almond flavor.
As you mix the ingredients, you’ll notice how the dough comes together into a sticky consistency, which is essential for shaping them into cookies. While the original recipe calls for a cookie press, you can easily shape them by hand if you don’t have one. The process is forgiving and allows for a bit of creativity, making it a fun baking experience.
Once baked, these cookies have a lovely chewy texture, reminiscent of a macaroon, and the cherry on top adds a delightful pop of color and flavor. They are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea. The recipe is quick, taking about 15 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a last-minute treat. You’ll find that these cookies not only taste amazing but also look impressive on any dessert platter.
Overall, this recipe is a wonderful way to explore the flavors of Sicily while enjoying the process of baking. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Mix 2 and 1/2 cups of almond flour into a bowl.
Add 3/4 cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of honey.
Separate egg whites from the yolks.
Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Tip: Measure the salt first while the spoon is dry, then rinse it out with almond extract.
Mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
Prepare the cookie press for shaping the cookies.
Spoon out 15 Luxardo cherries, leaving a thumb width between each.
Press a cherry into the center of each cookie.
Bake cookies for 10 to 12 minutes.
Rotate the cookies halfway through baking.
Tip: Rotate cookies 180° halfway through baking for even cooking.
Tip: Gas ovens tend to have hotter back areas; rotating helps bake goods evenly.
Tip: Move cookies to the top shelf for better browning from the top heat.
Let the cookies cool before tasting.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Nuts
→ Substitution: Sunflower Seed Flour
Ingredient: Eggs
→ Substitution: Aquafaba
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Luxardo cherries are a premium brand known for their rich flavor and thick syrup.
- •Almond flour provides a gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat flour.
- •These cookies are similar to amaretti but have a chewy texture.
- •Baking at a high temperature helps achieve a golden color and enhances flavor.
