Paste di Mandorla, or almond paste cookies, have their origins in Sicily, Italy, where they have been cherished for centuries as a traditional sweet. These soft, chewy cookies are made primarily from ground almonds, sugar, and egg whites, often flavored with citrus zest or topped with whole almonds or candied fruit. The recipe is believed to have Arab influences, dating back to the period when Sicily was under Arab rule from the 9th to 11th centuries. Over time, Sicilian pastry chefs refined the recipe, and Paste di Mandorla became a staple of Sicilian dessert tables, especially during holidays and special occasions. Today, they are celebrated not only for their rich history but also for their delicate texture and intense almond flavor.

Making Paste Di Mandorla Cookies is a simple and straightforward process. These delightful cookies have a soft texture and a delicious almond flavor. They are a popular choice for holiday celebrations and are sure to be a hit among your family and friends.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Servings: 36 cookies
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups almond flour
  • 2¼ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tbs honey
  • 4 egg whites
  • 1½ tbs almond extract
  • 2 cups powdered sugar (dusting)
  • Toppings such as candied cherries or whole almonds optional, see below

Method
 

  1. To begin, preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Next, prepare your baking sheets by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make clean-up easier.
  2. In a large bowl, use a fork to beat the egg whites until they reach a slightly foamy consistency. Next, add the almond flour, sugar, almond extract, and honey to the bowl. Mix all the ingredients together until a dough forms.
  3. Divide the dough into portions and place them on a tray that has been lightly dusted with confectioners' sugar. Cut approximately ½ x ½ inch in size and roll into a ball shape. Arrange the cookies on a baking sheet that is lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
  4. After arranging the cookies on the baking sheet, you can proceed to decorate them with candied cherry halves and whole almonds. Get creative and place the cherries and almonds in a visually pleasing pattern on top of each cookie. Once the cookies are beautifully decorated, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake them for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, keep a close eye on them to ensure they develop a light color on both the top and bottom surfaces, indicating that they have been baked to perfection.