Description
These Italian Cherry Almond Cookies are a delightful treat with a perfect balance of almond and cherry flavors. Made with almond flour for a gluten-free base and egg whites for lightness, they are also dairy-free. A simple yet delicious cookie that’s sure to please everyone, especially when topped with a sweet maraschino or luxardo cherry.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ¼ cups (252g) almond flour
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- Zest from 1 small lemon
- 2 egg whites (from 2 large eggs)
- ¾ teaspoon almond extract
- ¾ cup (90g) powdered sugar
- 18 maraschino cherries (from 11-ounce jar) or luxardo cherries, drained and patted dry
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the almond flour, granulated sugar, and lemon zest.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form. Add the almond extract and continue whisking until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the almond flour mixture until fully combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Lightly press one maraschino or luxardo cherry into the center of each dough ball, pressing it down slightly.
- Dust each cookie with a small amount of powdered sugar.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are firm to the touch.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cherries are well-drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture from affecting the dough.
- You can substitute the maraschino cherries with any other type of cherry if desired.
- These cookies store well for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Italian Cherry Almond Cookies, cherry almond cookies, dairy-free cookies, gluten-free cookies, Italian cookies, almond flour cookies, cherry dessert