Italian Almond Cookies
Delicious Italian almond cookies feature a harmonious blend of almonds, citrus, and warm spices, perfect for festive occasions or as a flavorful treat with coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix well the sugar, eggs, cloves, vegetable oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, chopped tangerine skin, and water.
- Add flour, one cup at a time, alternating with chopped almonds, and mix with hands until combined.
- Divide the dough into two large strips approximately as long as the cookie sheet and about 4 inches wide.
- Place the strips on a well-greased cookie sheet.
- Brush the strips with beaten egg yolk mixed with 1 teaspoon water.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350° to 375°F for about 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven when baked, and while warm, slice into 1-inch wide slices.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract to enhance the almond taste. You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a different texture. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you might increase the brown sugar by a couple of tablespoons. Ensure the almonds are coarsely chopped to give the cookies a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These Italian Almond Cookies are perfect as a sweet treat with coffee or tea. Serve them alongside Miss Rose's Meatballs for a delightful Italian-themed meal or pair with a scoop of gelato for dessert. They also make a great addition to a cookie platter for festive occasions, adding a unique touch to your spread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the slices in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. To enjoy again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in a microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Almond Cookies contains roughly 1660 calories, with 5g protein, 191g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (164% of the Daily Value), calcium (46% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1705mg per serving (74% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute almonds with other nuts such as hazelnuts or walnuts if you prefer. Just ensure they are chopped coarsely to maintain the texture of the cookies. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor profile.
What is the purpose of the tangerine skin in the recipe?
The chopped tangerine skin adds a citrusy brightness and a unique flavor to the cookies. It also provides a subtle aromatic quality that complements the spices. If tangerines are not available, you can use orange zest as a substitute.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Italian Almond Cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum to help replicate the texture of traditional flour. Follow the recipe as instructed for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).