The Amaretti Cookies recipe originates from Italy and features a delightful combination of almond meal, sugar, and egg whites, resulting in a cookie with a crispy exterior and a chewy interior. These cookies are popular for their distinct almond flavor and delicate texture, making them a favorite treat for tea or coffee time. Historically, Amaretti Cookies have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations found in different regions of Italy, each adding its unique twist to this classic recipe.

Ingredients:

- 200g almond meal

- 150g granulated sugar

- 2 large egg whites

- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

- Pinch of salt

- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Method of Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, combine the almond meal, granulated sugar, almond extract, and salt.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.

4. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the almond mixture until well combined.

5. Scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls.

6. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.

7. Optional: Dust the tops of the dough balls with powdered sugar.

8. Bake the cookies for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and set.

9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Amaretti Cookies with their crispy-chewy texture and delightful almond flavor!

Nutrition Value:

1. Almond Meal (200g):

  - Calories: Approximately 1,180 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 40g

  - Protein: Around 40g

  - Fat: Approximately 100g

  - Sodium: Minimal, usually less than 5mg

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and manganese.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Almond meal is a good source of healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients like vitamin E, which is beneficial for skin health and antioxidant protection. It also provides magnesium, important for bone health and muscle function.

2. Granulated Sugar (150g):

  - Calories: Approximately 600 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 150g

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: None

  - Sodium: Minimal, usually less than 5mg

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: No significant vitamins or minerals.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Sugar provides quick energy due to its high carbohydrate content, but it lacks substantial nutritional value. Consuming it in moderation is recommended.

3. Large Egg Whites (2):

  - Calories: Approximately 34 kcal per egg white (68 kcal for 2)

  - Carbohydrates: About 0.6g per egg white (1.2g for 2)

  - Protein: Around 7g per egg white (14g for 2)

  - Fat: None (if using only the whites)

  - Sodium: About 110mg per egg white (220mg for 2)

  - Cholesterol: None (if using only the whites)

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in protein, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), and selenium.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Egg whites are a low-calorie, high-protein ingredient, making them a good choice for adding protein to recipes without extra fat or cholesterol.

4. Almond Extract (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Negligible (typically less than 5 kcal)

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: No significant amounts.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Almond extract adds flavor to the cookies without contributing significant calories, making it a flavor enhancer rather than a significant source of nutrients.

5. Salt (Pinch):

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Varies based on the amount used but generally minimal.

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: No significant amounts.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Salt is primarily used for enhancing flavor. In small amounts, it's not a significant source of nutrients.

6. Powdered Sugar for Dusting (Optional):

  - Calories: Approximately 30 kcal per tablespoon (varies based on usage)

  - Carbohydrates: About 8g per tablespoon

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: None

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: No significant amounts.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Powdered sugar is used for decoration and sweetness. It adds calories from carbohydrates but doesn't provide substantial nutrients.