Name: Amaretti Thumbprints: Irresistibly Chewy Almond Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 200 grams Ground Almonds; 150 grams Sugar (or brown sugar); 3 large Egg Whites (at room temperature); 50 grams Honey (or maple syrup for vegan option); 1 teaspoon Almond Extract (can substitute vanilla or hazelnut extract); 30 grams All-Purpose Flour (omit for gluten-free version); 100 grams Icing Sugar (for rolling); 200 grams Red Fruit Jam (raspberry or red currant recommended)

The kitchen filled with the warm, nutty aroma of baking, I couldn’t help but smile as I rolled the dough for my Amaretti Thumbprints. These delightful Italian almond cookies are like little bites of nostalgia, with each cookie featuring a playful splash of jam right in the center. Not only are they gluten-free and simple to whip up, but they also carry an air of festivity, making them perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re looking to impress friends or treat your family with a touch of homemade sweetness, these cookies are a wonderful way to bring joy to the table. Ready to learn how to craft these charming treats and explore endless variations? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Amaretti Thumbprints So Beloved?

Irresistible Crunch: These cookies start with a crisp exterior that gives way to a delightful chewy center, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Festive Appearance: The vibrant jam filling adds a pop of color, making these cookies a stunning addition to any holiday platter.

Customizable Flavors: With options to swap out extracts or jams, every batch can be a unique creation tailored to your taste. Explore variations like using lemon curd or chocolate ganache for a delightful twist!

Easy Preparation: You can whip up a batch in no time, making them an ideal treat for busy bakers. If you enjoyed these, you might also like my Gluten-Free Brownies that are just as simple and delicious!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress both family and friends alike. Get ready for everyone to ask for the recipe!

Amaretti Thumbprints Ingredients

• To create these delightful cookies, gather the following essential ingredients.

For the Dough

Ground Almonds – Offers structure and a rich almond flavor; almond flour can be used for a smoother texture.
Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; you can experiment with brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like taste.
Egg Whites – Binds the dough and enhances chewiness; ensure they’re at room temperature for best results.
Honey – Adds moisture and sweetness; swap for maple syrup to make these Amaretti Thumbprints vegan.
Almond Extract – Imparts a strong almond flavor; try vanilla or hazelnut extract for an exciting twist.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; omit it to keep this recipe fully gluten-free.
Icing Sugar – Used for rolling the cookie balls, creating a sweet outer layer that appeals to the eye.

For the Jam Filling

Red Fruit Jam – Bursts with flavor in the thumbprint; traditional choices like raspberry or red currant work beautifully.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Amaretti Thumbprints

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine ground almonds, granulated sugar, and egg whites. Add honey and almond extract, mixing until a cohesive dough forms, about 3-5 minutes. If using all-purpose flour, fold it in gently to maintain the tender texture. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable; set aside for a moment while you preheat your oven.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 170°C (338°F) and allow it to preheat fully. While the oven heats, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring they’re ready for your delicious Amaretti Thumbprints. This preparation will keep the cookies from sticking and make clean-up a breeze after baking.

Step 3: Form Cookie Balls
Once your oven is warm, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough, rolling them into 20 uniform balls. As you roll the dough, coat each ball generously in icing sugar until well-covered. This step not only adds sweetness but also creates a lovely texture once baked, giving your cookies a delightful outer layer.

Step 4: Create Thumbprints
Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press into the center of each ball to create an indentation for the jam. Don’t be afraid to make a nice deep well; this is where the fruity jam will sit!

Step 5: Bake
Slide the trays into the preheated oven and bake the Amaretti Thumbprints for approximately 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden at the edges while still soft in the center. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they appear a bit delicate when you take them out.

Step 6: Fill with Jam
Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack. Once they’re cool enough to handle, fill each thumbprint with about ½ teaspoon of your chosen red fruit jam. The warm cookies will slightly warm the jam, enhancing the flavors beautifully.

Step 7: Serve
After incorporating the delightful jam filling, let the Amairetti Thumbprints cool completely. These charming cookies can be enjoyed alongside coffee or tea, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Their irresistible charm and flavors make them an ideal treat for any festive occasion!

Amaretti Thumbprints Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your imagination run wild with these delightful variations, each offering a unique twist that’s sure to please your taste buds!

Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed flour instead of ground almonds for a nut-free alternative. They’ll bring a different but equally delicious flavor!
Vegan: Substitute egg whites with 3 tablespoons of aquafaba to make these cookies entirely plant-based. They’ll still be light and chewy!
Flavor Boost: Swap out the almond extract for vanilla or hazelnut extract to create a whole new flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!
Jam Variety: Replace the red fruit jam with lemon curd or even chocolate ganache; each option adds a delightful twist that’s sure to impress.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a hint of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to the dough. It enhances the flavor beautifully!
Chocolate Dipped: For an indulgent treat, dip cooled cookies in dark chocolate. This creates a luscious contrast with the jam-filled center.
Add some Citrus: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest into the dough for a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the almond beautifully.
Herbal Essence: Try adding finely chopped fresh rosemary or lavender into the dough for an aromatic twist that will transport you to a fragrant garden.

Each of these substitutions allows you to customize the Amaretti Thumbprints further, making them just the way you like! Want more ideas? Check out my Chocolate Chip Cookies for substitutions and variations that cater to different dietary preferences!

What to Serve with Amaretti Thumbprints?

The perfect accompaniment for your baking adventure awaits—let’s explore delightful pairings that enhance those charming Italian cookies.

Rich Espresso: The bold flavors of espresso complement the sweetness of the Amaretti Thumbprints, creating a perfect harmony of tastes. A warm cup will elevate your cookie experience!
Sweet Mascarpone Dip: This creamy dip adds a luscious element, balancing the crunch of the cookies. Spread or dip each cookie to indulge in rich and comforting flavors.
Fresh Berries Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal berries brings freshness and a burst of tartness, offsetting the sweetness of the cookies and adding a splash of color.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat—its creamy texture melts into the cookie, creating an irresistible contrast.
Herbal Tea: Pair with soothing herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, for a warm and refreshing twist. Sip while enjoying your cookies for a cozy moment!
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For those with a sweet tooth, drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cookies to add a decadently rich layer of flavor and indulgence.
Lemonade Sparkler: A zesty lemonade mixed with sparkling water can be a refreshing sip next to the cookies, brightening up your dessert experience effortlessly.
Almond Milk: Emphasizing the nutty undertones of your Amaretti Thumbprints, almond milk offers a creamy, dairy-free option that pairs beautifully with each bite.

How to Store and Freeze Amaretti Thumbprints

Room Temperature: Store Amaretti Thumbprints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three weeks to maintain their delightful texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a month; just ensure they are sealed well to prevent them from absorbing any moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then place them in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying!
Reheating: To refresh your cookies, simply warm them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes, restoring that comforting chewiness.

Expert Tips for Amaretti Thumbprints

Room Temperature Egg Whites: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when whipped, which enhances the chewiness of your Amaretti Thumbprints.
Gentle Mixing: Avoid over-mixing the dough; combine the ingredients just until mixed to maintain the tender texture of the cookies.
High-Quality Jam: Using a high-quality fruit jam will elevate the flavor of your cookies significantly. Opt for homemade or gourmet brands if you can!
Cooling Time: Allow your cookies to cool completely before filling them with jam. This helps them maintain their structure and prevents the jam from melting into the cookie.
Uniform Sizes: Roll your dough into uniformly sized balls to ensure even baking; this way, every Amaretti Thumbprint will turn out perfectly!
Explore Variations: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Experiment with different extracts and jam flavors to customize your Amaretti Thumbprints for every occasion.

Make Ahead Options

These Amaretti Thumbprints are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing ground almonds, sugar, egg whites, honey, and almond extract, then refrigerate it (covered). The cookie balls can also be rolled, coated in icing sugar, and formed with thumbprints up to 3 days before baking—just keep them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven, fill each thumbprint with jam, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll have fresh, homemade Amaretti Thumbprints effortlessly ready for sharing, saving you valuable time on busy days!

Amaretti Thumbprints Recipe FAQs

What type of almonds should I use for Amaretti Thumbprints?
Absolutely! Ground almonds are ideal for this recipe, providing that deep almond flavor and necessary structure. You can also use almond flour, which yields a smoother texture, if you prefer. Just make sure whatever you use is finely ground to ensure your cookies have the tender crumb that makes them so irresistible!

How do I store and for how long?
You can store your Amaretti Thumbprints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three weeks; they’ll stay delightful and chewy! If you prefer, refrigerate them for up to a month, ensuring they’re well-sealed to keep any moisture at bay. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to three months—just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

How do I freeze Amaretti Thumbprints?
Freezing these delicious cookies is a breeze! Here’s how you do it: first, place your cooled Amaretti Thumbprints in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them for about 1-2 hours. This prevents them from sticking together. Once solid, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, layering sheets of parchment paper between the cookies to keep them separate. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months, ready for whenever you need a sweet treat!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If you find your dough a bit crumbly, don’t worry! Just add a little more egg white (one tablespoon at a time) until it holds together nicely. Another option is to mix in a tiny splash of honey to help bind the ingredients. Be sure to mix gently until the dough comes together; over-mixing can make the cookies tough!

Can I make these Amaretti Thumbprints vegan?
Very much so! To create a vegan version of these delightful cookies, simply replace the egg whites with aquafaba, using about 3 tablespoons for each egg white. This fantastic chickpea water provides the necessary binding properties and whipability! Additionally, you can swap honey for maple syrup to keep the sweetness intact while ensuring they fit within a vegan diet.