Pignoli Cookies
Classic Italian pignoli cookies made with almond paste and topped with pine nuts. These chewy, naturally gluten-free treats are rich in almond flavor and perfect for holidays or coffee breaks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 8 oz almond paste
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup pine nuts (pignoli)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon or orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Crumble the almond paste into a mixing bowl and add powdered sugar. Mix until combined.
- Add egg whites, extract, and salt. Beat until a smooth, sticky dough forms.
- Optional: Stir in citrus zest for added brightness.
- Scoop small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon) and roll into balls.
- Place pine nuts on a plate and roll each dough ball in them, pressing gently so they stick.
- Arrange the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 14–18 minutes, or until lightly golden on the bottom and set on top.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.
Notes
Use almond paste (not marzipan) for authentic texture and flavor.Chilling the dough briefly can help reduce spreading if needed.Do not overbake; cookies should remain soft and chewy in the center.Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days.Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Find it online: https://cookibly.com/pignoli-cookies/
