Italian Sesame Seed Cookies
Delicious Italian sesame seed cookies with a tender crumb, subtly flavored with almond, perfect for sharing during festivities or as a delightful treat with coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease the baking pan.
- Mix the dry ingredients: flour, powdered sugar, and baking powder.
- Cut in the margarine until the mixture is very fine.
- Add the eggs, holding back one egg white.
- Add almond extract.
- Knead the dough until it is all mixed and firm, not sticky.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsalted butter. If you prefer a nutty taste, try adding finely chopped almonds along with the sesame seeds. When mixing, ensure the dough is not over-kneaded to maintain a tender texture. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can also help with shaping the cookies. These cookies go well with a cup of coffee or a dessert wine.
Serving Suggestions
These Italian Sesame Seed Cookies are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a cup of espresso for a traditional pairing. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter with other Italian recipes like Biscotti Regina(Queen'S Cookies) or Anise Pizzelles. For a festive touch, dust them lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Sesame Seed Cookies contains roughly 2801 calories, with 72g protein, 209g carbohydrates, and 205g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (147% of the Daily Value), protein (143% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (126% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 510mg per serving (22% 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 a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or whole wheat flour, but the texture may vary. If using whole wheat flour, the cookies might turn out denser. Adjust the liquid ingredients slightly if needed to achieve the right dough consistency.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try adding a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. Make sure to knead gently after each addition. A well-floured surface while shaping the cookies can also help manage stickiness.
How can I make these cookies more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of these cookies, consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. You can also incorporate other extracts like vanilla or lemon zest for a unique twist. Experimenting with different flavored extracts can elevate the overall taste.
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).