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Delicious Italian pine nut cookies on a wooden surface, showcasing their golden color and nutty topping.

Italian Pine Nut Cookies

Deliciously nutty and chewy Italian Pine Nut Cookies featuring a golden pine nut crust and a tender almond interior, perfect for gifting or enjoying with coffee.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 100

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 7 ounces almond paste Choose a quality almond paste for the best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Use fine sugar for smoother integration.
  • 1 large egg white Can substitute with pasteurized egg white or aquafaba.
  • 1 cup pine nuts (pignoli) Use fresh pine nuts to avoid rancidity.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Break almond paste into small chunks and add to a food processor with the granulated sugar.
  3. Pulse until the mixture resembles fine crumbs, scraping down the bowl as needed.
Making the Dough
  1. Add egg white and blend until a smooth, thick dough forms.
  2. Prepare pine nuts in a shallow bowl.
  3. Form dough into balls, approximately 1 tablespoon each.
Baking
  1. Roll each ball in pine nuts, then arrange on the prepared baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
  2. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until golden brown, monitoring closely.
  3. Cool on the pan for 5–10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw at room temperature before serving.