Crunchy, chewy, flourless Italian-inspired cookies perfect for travel and everyday snackingIf you’re following a gluten-free diet, finding tasty cookies that travel well can be a real challenge. These Gluten-Free Almond Cookies (a homemade version of classic Amaretti) solve that problem beautifully. Made with almond paste, they’re naturally gluten-free, have a wonderful chewy-crunchy texture, and deliver a rich almond flavor that everyone loves — gluten-free or not.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Truly flourless — No gluten-free flour blends needed.
- Perfect for travel — They stay fresh and crisp for days.
- Simple ingredients — Only 5 ingredients total.
- Naturally gluten-free — Just be sure to use certified gluten-free almond paste.
- Great for gifting and holidays — Elegant enough for a cookie platter.
Gluten-Free Cookie Recipe
Yield: 36 two-inch cookies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 18–20 minutes Ingredients:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 18–20 minutes Ingredients:
- 2 × 8-ounce (225 g) cans gluten-free almond paste
- 2 extra-large egg whites
- ½ cup + 1/8 cup (81 g) superfine sugar (caster sugar)
- ⅛ teaspoon almond extract
- ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Extra sugar for pressing cookies
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C/Gas 3). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Prepare the dough: Place the almond paste in a food processor and pulse 3 times to break it up. Add the superfine sugar and pulse until well combined.
- Add the egg whites, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Pulse until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. The dough will be sticky.
- Shape the cookies: Scoop out portions and roll into 1-inch balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Dip your fingers in extra sugar and gently press each ball into a 2-inch round, about ¼-inch thick.
- Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes until the cookies are firm and just lightly golden brown on the edges.
- Optional extra crunch: Turn off the oven, and leave the cookies inside for another 5 minutes.
- Cool completely on the baking sheets before transferring to an airtight container.
Pro Tip: To make superfine sugar at home, pulse regular granulated sugar in a clean coffee grinder or food processor for a few seconds.Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
- Pack them in lunchboxes or travel bags.
- Serve on a holiday cookie tray alongside chocolate cookies and shortbread.
- Crumble over ice cream or yogurt for a delicious topping.
Storage TipsStore in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They actually get better after a day or two as the flavors meld.These gluten-free almond cookies prove that delicious treats don’t need wheat flour to shine. They’re a must-try for anyone avoiding gluten or simply craving a classic Italian almond cookie.
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