Description
Almond Cloud Cookies are a light, chewy, and naturally gluten-free treat made with almond paste, a blend of sugars, and egg whites. These Italian-American inspired cookies feature a delicate almond flavor with a crisp exterior and soft center, topped with sliced almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar, perfect for holiday celebrations or anytime you crave a delightful nutty dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 can (8 ounces) almond paste
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Topping
- Sliced almonds for topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients and Almond Paste: In a mixing bowl, break the almond paste into small pieces. Add the granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and salt, then beat until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the egg whites and almond extract into the almond paste mixture. Beat thoroughly until a thick, sticky batter forms, ensuring the ingredients are fully combined.
- Scoop and Shape Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop heaping amounts of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart to allow spreading during baking.
- Add Almond Topping: Gently press a few sliced almonds on top of each cookie to add texture and enhance the almond flavor.
- Bake Cookies: Bake for 20 to 22 minutes until the edges turn lightly golden and the tops develop characteristic cracks, indicating they are cooked through.
- Cool and Dust: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar for a pretty finish.
Notes
- These cookies are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- For a crisper exterior, allow cookies to sit out for 10 minutes before baking.
- Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for better incorporation and texture.
- You can substitute almond extract with vanilla extract if preferred, though almond extract enhances the nutty flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
