Ridiculously Easy Italian Raspberry Jam Amaretti Cookies Recipe

The moment you discover these Ridiculously Easy Italian Raspberry Jam Amaretti Cookies, you’re in for a delightful treat that feels both sophisticated and simple. With a tender almond base soaked in sweetness and crowned by a jewel of tangy raspberry jam, these cookies deliver an irresistible balance of textures and flavors that make every bite a little celebration. Whether you’re craving an afternoon pick-me-up or planning to wow guests with something elegant yet fuss-free, this recipe will become your new go-to for effortless indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of pantry staples, this recipe is a testament to how uncomplicated ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Each component plays its part, from the rich almond flour that gives the cookies their signature chewiness to the fondness of the raspberry jam that adds that perfect burst of fruitiness.

• Egg whites: Two large egg whites create the light, airy structure that holds everything together with a delicate touch.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetness and texture come from ⅔ cup of this essential pantry sugar, balancing the nutty flavors perfectly.
• Baking powder: Just a half teaspoon to provide a gentle lift so the cookies aren’t too dense.
• Salt: Half a teaspoon enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness from overwhelming your palate.
• Vanilla extract: A teaspoon adds warmth and depth that makes each bite extra special.
• Almond extract: Just a quarter teaspoon boosts the natural almond flavor, amplifying the cookie’s character in the most delightful way.
• Almond flour: 2 ⅓ cups of finely ground almond flour is the soul of these cookies, giving them a moist, chewy texture and rich nuttiness.
• Cane or granulated sugar (for rolling): Coating the dough balls in sugar keeps them from sticking and adds a subtle crunch on the outside.
• Powdered sugar: Used for dusting, it adds a snowy finish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
• Raspberry jam: The little pockets of tart, sweet jam in the center bring a luscious, colorful surprise to each cookie.

How to Make Ridiculously Easy Italian Raspberry Jam Amaretti Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Space and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325˚F and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the pan with ease, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Whisk the Egg Whites

In a medium-large bowl, whisk your egg whites for about one minute until frothy and pale yellow. This aeration is key for a light cookie texture that melts in your mouth.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Mixing Ingredients

Next, whisk in the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and a bit thicker than heavy cream. Stir in the baking powder, salt, vanilla, and almond extracts to create a beautifully fragrant batter brimming with promise.

Step 4: Incorporate Almond Flour

Now it’s time to fold in the almond flour. Stir gently until the flour is completely absorbed, then let the dough rest for five minutes. This resting period allows the flour to soak up moisture, making the cookie dough perfectly pliable for rolling.

Step 5: Shape and Sugar-Coat the Dough Balls

Scoop out 15-16 equal portions, roughly one ounce each, and roll them into balls. Don’t worry if they’re a bit sticky—the sugar coating will fix that! Roll each ball in cane or granulated sugar twice, then space them about two inches apart on your baking sheet for optimal oven performance.

Step 6: Create the Indentations and Bake

Use a half-teaspoon measure to gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie—this will hold the jam beautifully. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, keeping an eye out until the cookies crack slightly and develop a pale golden hue.

Step 7: Finish and Fill

Once out of the oven, reinforce the indentations to maintain their shape. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Finally, dust them generously with powdered sugar before filling each center with a half teaspoon of raspberry jam. Voilà! You have the perfect batch of Ridiculously Easy Italian Raspberry Jam Amaretti Cookies ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Ridiculously Easy Italian Raspberry Jam Amaretti Cookies

Garnishes

For a touch of elegance, sprinkle some extra powdered sugar just before serving or add a fresh raspberry atop each dollop of jam. A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds can also elevate the nuttiness and provide a delightful textural contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cup of strong espresso or a fragrant herbal tea to complement their rich almond profile. For an indulgent twist, offer a little mascarpone or whipped cream on the side for dipping, turning every bite into a mini dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Display these cookies on a vintage tiered cake stand for a charming afternoon tea vibe or arrange them carefully in a decorative box as a heartfelt homemade gift. For holidays, place them alongside other Italian treats on a festive platter to transport guests straight to a Mediterranean celebration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Ridiculously Easy Italian Raspberry Jam Amaretti Cookies fresh by storing them in a single layer inside an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents sogginess and ensures the texture stays just right for several days.

Freezing

If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls rolled in sugar on a sheet tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, just pop them straight into the preheated oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To revive the gentle warmth and crisp edges, place the cookies in a low oven (around 300˚F) for 3 to 5 minutes. Be careful not to overheat, as this could dry out the delicate cookies. A quick reheat brings back that fresh-baked feeling beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour?

Almond flour is finely ground and gives these cookies their tender texture, while almond meal is coarser and can affect the consistency. It’s best to stick with almond flour for the authentic chewy bite of these amaretti.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

While almond extract adds a lovely depth, you can omit it if needed or substitute with a little extra vanilla extract. The cookies will still be delicious, just with a slightly less pronounced almond aroma.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Since this recipe uses almond flour rather than wheat flour, these cookies are naturally gluten-free, making them a delightful option for those with gluten sensitivities.

How long do these cookies keep fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freezing is a great option that preserves their quality.

What’s the best type of raspberry jam to use?

Choose a high-quality, smooth raspberry jam that isn’t too runny for the best results. Homemade or artisanal jams with a natural balance of sweetness and tartness will really shine in these cookies.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about making and sharing Ridiculously Easy Italian Raspberry Jam Amaretti Cookies. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, they bring a touch of Italian charm into your kitchen and onto your plate. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll soon understand why these cookies are a beloved classic—sweet, nutty, and filled with a pop of raspberry magic that turns every moment into something special.

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