Italian Pignoli Cookies

Italian Pignoli Cookies are a beloved traditional Italian confection that showcases the crown jewels of Italian baking. These almond cookies, rolled in mild and buttery pine nuts, are a must-have during holiday celebrations and special occasions. Maria Regakis from Somerville, Massachusetts, cherishes these cookies and bakes them without fail for every holiday.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 1/4 cups almond paste (12 ounces)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 4 egg whites, divided
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 1/2 cups pine nuts

PREPARATION:

1. In a small bowl, beat the almond paste and sugar together until crumbly. Add 2 egg whites and beat until well combined. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and mix until smooth.
2. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk the remaining 2 egg whites. Place the pine nuts in another shallow bowl.
3. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the whisked egg whites, ensuring it is fully coated. Then coat the ball with the pine nuts, gently pressing them into the dough. Place the coated balls 2 inches apart on parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Slightly flatten each ball.
4. Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15-18 minutes or until they are lightly browned.
5. Allow the cookies to cool for 1 minute on the baking sheets before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
6. Store the Italian Pignoli Cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

YIELD:

This recipe yields approximately 2 1/2 dozen Italian Pignoli Cookies.

PREP/TOTAL TIME:

Preparation time: 30 minutes Baking time: 15-18 minutes per batch Total time: Approximately 45-48 minutes

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Almond paste can be sticky. To make it easier to work with, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before using.
• Ensure the almond paste and sugar are well combined and crumbly before adding the egg whites.
• When rolling the dough into balls, slightly wet your hands with water to prevent sticking.
• Gently press the pine nuts onto the dough balls, ensuring they adhere well.
• If the pine nuts start to brown too quickly during baking, you can cover the cookies loosely with foil.
• Pignoli Cookies are soft and delicate, so handle them carefully when transferring them to wire racks to cool.

TIPS:

• These cookies are traditionally enjoyed in southern Italy and Sicily, similar to macaroons. The outside of the cookies is covered in mild and buttery pine nuts, while the inside remains soft and chewy.
• Italian Pignoli Cookies make a delightful addition to dessert tables, cookie exchanges, or gifts. Package them in decorative containers or gift boxes for a special touch.
• Ensure the pine nuts are fresh and of good quality for the best flavor and texture.
• Pignoli Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time.
• These cookies can also be frozen for longer storage. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to two months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

In conclusion, Italian Pignoli Cookies are an exquisite Italian confection that captivates the taste buds with their delicate almond flavor and the irresistible combination of mild and buttery pine nuts. Passed down through generations, these cookies hold a special place in the heart of Maria Regakis from Somerville, Massachusetts, who bakes them faithfully for every holiday.

To create these delectable treats, start by beating together almond paste, sugar, and egg whites until crumbly. Gradually incorporate confectioners’ sugar to achieve a smooth dough. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and roll each ball in whisked egg whites, followed by a coating of pine nuts. Bake the cookies until lightly browned and allow them to cool before indulging in their soft and chewy texture.

Italian Pignoli Cookies are reminiscent of macaroons and are especially cherished in southern Italy and Sicily. They make a beautiful addition to holiday dessert tables, cookie exchanges, or thoughtful homemade gifts. Packaged in decorative containers, they are sure to impress.

Remember to handle these delicate cookies with care, as they are soft and fragile. With their distinctive flavor and stunning appearance, Italian Pignoli Cookies are a true delight for anyone with a love for Italian confections.