Pignoli cookies, also known as pine nut cookies, are traditional Italian cookies that are rich, chewy, and gluten-free. They are named after the main ingredient, which is pignoli or pine nuts. Here’s a simple recipe for making Pignoli cookies:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup pine nuts (pignoli)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This can be done using an electric mixer.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the almond flour mixture until well combined.
- Add the vanilla extract and almond extract to the batter, mixing until the extracts are fully incorporated.
- Place the pine nuts in a shallow dish.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in the pine nuts, making sure to coat the entire surface.
- Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These Pignoli cookies are deliciously nutty, chewy on the inside, and slightly crispy on the outside. They make a delightful treat for any occasion and are especially popular during the holiday season. Enjoy!
