Description
Deliciously chewy and nutty Pignoli Cookies made with almond paste, powdered sugar, and topped with crunchy pine nuts. These classic Italian cookies are simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 12 oz. almond paste, crumbled
- 1 1/3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 large egg whites
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Topping
- 1 cup pine nuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare dough: In a food processor, combine the crumbled almond paste, powdered sugar, egg whites, and kosher salt. Pulse until the mixture becomes smooth and well incorporated. Then, spread the pine nuts out on a shallow plate for easy rolling.
- Shape cookies: Using slightly dampened hands to prevent sticking, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the pine nuts, pressing gently so the nuts adhere well. Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheets and gently flatten each to form approximately 1 1/2-inch rounds.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 16 to 18 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on the edges.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 1 minute before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which will help them set perfectly.
Notes
- Almond paste can be found in most grocery stores, typically near the baking aisle or specialty food section.
- To slightly dampen hands, run your hands under water and shake off excess to prevent dough from sticking while rolling.
- You can substitute kosher salt with sea salt if unavailable, but avoid table salt for better texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a slightly sweeter cookie, sprinkle a bit more powdered sugar on top before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 115
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
