Ricciarelli (Italian Almond Cookies)
If you have a sweet tooth and love Italian cuisine, then you must have heard of Ricciarelli cookies. These delicious treats are a traditional Italian delicacy made with almonds, sugar, and egg whites, and are known for their soft and chewy texture. In this article, we will explore the history, ingredients, preparation, variations, serving suggestions, and health benefits of Ricciarelli cookies, along with some interesting facts about these delectable Italian almond cookies.
Ricciarelli cookies are almond-based cookies that originated in Siena, Italy. They are characterized by their unique diamond shape and cracked, powdered sugar-coated exterior. These cookies are often associated with special occasions such as Christmas and other festive celebrations in Italy and are a popular treat during the holiday season. Ricciarelli cookies are beloved for their delicate almond flavor and soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth, making them a favorite among cookie enthusiasts.
History and Origin of Ricciarelli Cookies
The history of Ricciarelli cookies can be traced back to the Renaissance era in Italy. Legend has it that these cookies were created by Ricciardetto della Gherardesca, a nobleman from Siena, during a lavish banquet held in the 14th century. The recipe was inspired by Middle Eastern almond-based sweets that were introduced to Italy by the Moors during the Arab rule of Sicily. Over the centuries, the recipe for Ricciarelli cookies has been refined and passed down through generations, becoming a beloved traditional Italian treat.
The ingredients for Ricciarelli cookies are simple and few, but they are essential to create the authentic flavor and texture of these Italian delicacies. The main ingredients include almonds, sugar, egg whites, almond extract, and powdered sugar for coating. Some variations may also include honey, lemon zest, and vanilla extract for additional flavor.
- 1 cup of almond meal
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of almond extract
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond meal, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the vanilla extract, almond extract, and olive oil.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.
- Beat the egg white until it forms soft peaks. Gently fold into the mixture until just combined.
- Using a small spoon, scoop out the dough and shape into circles approximately 2 inches in diameter. Place the cookies on the parchment-lined baking sheets, about an inch apart.
- Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops are set.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheets for 15 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and sprinkle with powdered sugar. Allow to cool completely before serving. Enjoy!
