Description
These Soft & Chewy Almond Paste Cookies are a delightful treat made with almond paste, sugar, and egg whites, resulting in a sweet, tender, and slightly chewy texture. Perfect for almond lovers, these cookies are easy to prepare, baked to a light golden finish, and optionally garnished with sliced almonds and powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 8 oz almond paste
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Optional Garnishes
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, crumble the almond paste into small pieces. Add both granulated sugar and powdered sugar, mixing until the mixture becomes crumbly and well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg whites, almond extract, and salt into the crumbly mixture. Continue mixing until the dough becomes smooth and sticky, indicating proper binding.
- Shape Cookies: Form the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Garnish: Optionally, press sliced almonds onto the top of each cookie to add a crunchy texture and attractive appearance.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, signaling they are cooked through but still soft.
- Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure the almond paste is softened or room temperature to ease mixing.
- Do not overbake to maintain the soft and chewy texture.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent cookies from sticking.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- For a more intense almond flavor, you can increase the almond extract slightly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
