Pignoli Cookie Recipe

Name: Pignoli Cookie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz almond paste; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large egg whites; 1 cup pine nuts; 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional); Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

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Pignoli Cookie are a beloved treat originating from Southern Italy, particularly Sicily. These sweet, nutty cookies are made with almond paste and coated with pine nuts, creating a delicate balance between soft and crunchy. Often served around holidays or special occasions, Pignoli Cookie have made their way into bakeries and homes worldwide.

Freshly baked pignoli cookies with pine nuts on top

Pignoli Cookie, also known as “pinoli” in Italian, refer to the pine nuts that top these delightful treats. They are a staple in Italian-American bakeries and are thought to have originated in Sicily. Almonds and pine nuts were commonly used in Mediterranean regions, making these cookies a natural creation based on local ingredients.

Pignoli cookies also embody the simplicity of Italian baking, but with just a few high-quality ingredients, they manage to create a rich, indulgent flavor, so generally, their chewy almond base and slight crunch make them perfect for coffee or dessert platters.

Essential Ingredients

Almond paste: The key ingredient, accordingly, gives the cookies their signature chewy texture, but it’s also essential for achieving the right flavor balance, so don’t skip it.
Granulated sugar: This ingredient adds sweetness and helps bind the almond paste, but it also contributes to the overall texture, so generally, it’s crucial for the cookie’s success.
Egg whites: These, accordingly, provide structure and moisture, but they also play a role in the overall flavor profile.
Pine nuts: The crunchy topping that adds flavor and texture.

Optional Flavor Additions

Vanilla extract for a more aromatic flavor.
Lemon or orange zest to add a citrusy twist.
Honey for an extra layer of sweetness.

Ingredients for making pignoli cookies, including almond paste and pine nuts

Basic Kitchen Tools

So,you need Mixing bowl
Electric mixer (or a strong arm for hand mixing!)
Baking sheet
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

Special Equipment for a Smoother Process

A cookie scoop for uniform size.
Cooling racks for even cooling after baking.

How to Select the Best Almond Paste

What to Look for When Buying Almond Paste

High-quality almond paste is essential for the best Pignoli Cookie. Look for almond paste that contains a high percentage of almonds (at least 50%) and minimal added sugars. Avoid marzipan, which is often sweeter and less suited for baking.

Homemade Almond Paste Recipe

If you can’t find almond paste at the store, accordingly, you can make it at home with ground almonds, also add powdered sugar, but don’t forget the egg whites, so you can get the right consistency with a touch of almond extract.

Mixing almond paste and sugar for pignoli cookie dough

Why Pine Nuts Are Important

Pine nuts provide a unique, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet almond base. Their slight crunch adds texture to the otherwise soft cookie, making them a crucial component.

How to Toast Pine Nuts for Extra Flavor

For an even richer taste, try toasting the pine nuts lightly in a dry pan before using them. This enhances their nutty flavor and adds a slight crispiness to the cookies.

Detailed Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the almond paste, sugar, and egg whites until smooth and well-mixed.
Shape the cookies: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form small balls of dough. Roll each ball in pine nuts, pressing gently so the nuts stick.
Bake: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the tops are golden.
Cool: Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the dough: This can result in tough cookies.
Using marzipan instead of almond paste: Marzipan is too sweet and doesn’t have the right consistency.

How to Form and Shape the Dough

So, generally, make small, even balls of dough to ensure the cookies bake evenly, and the pine nuts should cover the entire surface of each cookie for the best texture.

Using Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats

For easier cleanup and to prevent sticking, always use parchment paper or silicone mats when baking Pignoli Cookies.

Temperature and Baking Time

Bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent overbaking. The cookies should be golden on top but still soft to the touch.

How to Ensure Chewy Yet Firm Cookies

If you prefer a chewier cookie, remove them from the oven as soon as the tops turn golden. For firmer cookies, leave them in for a minute or two longer.

Best Practices for Storing

Pignoli Cookie can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Ensure they are completely cooled before storing to maintain freshness.

Yes! You can freeze pignoli cookies for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Gluten-Free Version

Pignoli Cookie are naturally gluten-free since they use almond paste instead of flour. This makes them a great treat for those with gluten sensitivities.

Adding Chocolate or Citrus Zest

For a twist, accordingly, try drizzling melted chocolate over the cookies, also consider adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest, but make sure not to overpower the almond flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Pignoli Cookies

Pairing with Coffee or Tea

Pignoli cookies are also perfect with a hot cup of espresso or tea, but their nutty sweetness generally complements bitter coffee and herbal teas, so they’re ideal for any cozy break.

Adding Them to a Dessert Platter

These cookies also make a beautiful addition to any dessert platter, especially during holidays or special gatherings.

Calories and Macros

Pignoli Cookies are rich due to their almond paste and pine nuts. On average, one cookie contains about 90-110 calories, with around 8 grams of fat, 2 grams of protein, and 8 grams of carbohydrates.

Are They Healthy in Moderation?

While these cookies are a sweet indulgence, they do contain healthy fats from the almonds and pine nuts. In moderation, they can fit into a balanced diet.

Pignoli cookies cooling on a baking tray

Conclusion

Pignoli Cookie are a delightful Italian treat that are surprisingly simple to make at home. With just a few ingredients and a bit of care, you can create these chewy, nutty cookies that will transport you to an Italian bakery. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, pignoli cookies are sure to please.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Other Nuts Besides Pine Nuts?

Yes, while pine nuts are traditional, you can experiment with other nuts like slivered almonds or hazelnuts.

How Can I Make These Cookies Vegan?

You can substitute the egg whites with aquafaba, accordingly, also, but remember that aquafaba might behave slightly differently, so adjust the recipe if needed for a vegan version of these cookies.

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