Pignoli Cookies With Pine Nuts

These chewy and buttery Pignoli cookies have graced my family’s holidays for years their almond center and toasted pine nut crust make them a classic treat for any gathering or coffee break

I first tried these in my Nonna’s kitchen and the aroma of almond always brings me back to that cozy table each December

Ingredients

• Pine nuts: add a delicious toasty crunch and nutty aroma choose fresh nuts that smell slightly sweet
• Almond paste: gives that chewy inside and deep almond flavor look for one that lists almonds as the main ingredient without fillers
• Sugar: brings the perfect balance of sweetness use white granulated sugar for classic texture
• Egg whites: create that signature light crisp cookie shell fresh large eggs whip best

Step-by-Step Instructions

Toast the Pine Nuts:

Gently heat pine nuts in a small dry skillet on low stirring often until they turn lightly golden and fragrant cool completely to avoid melting the dough later

Prepare the Almond Mixture:

Break almond paste into chunks drop into the bowl of a food processor pulse repeatedly until it crumbles into fine sandlike bits this ensures it blends smoothly into the batter

Sweeten and Blend:

Gradually add sugar in two portions pulsing for a few seconds after each addition scrape the sides to make sure all paste is mixed with sugar

Whip the Egg Whites:

Use a clean bowl to beat egg whites with a hand mixer until stiff peaks hold this helps give the cookie its classic crackly top

Fold and Chill the Dough:

Carefully fold almond and sugar mixture into the whipped egg whites mixing gently until fully combined refrigerate at least one hour for easier shaping and richer flavor

Shape and Decorate:

Line a baking sheet with parchment to prevent sticking spoon dough by teaspoonfuls evenly spaced on the prepared pan gently press eight to ten pine nuts on each cookie pressing down just enough to flatten slightly

Bake and Cool:

Bake at three hundred twenty five degrees for about fifteen minutes pull cookies out as soon as they set and before they brown this keeps the centers moist let them cool on the baking sheet a few minutes then transfer to a wire rack

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I love how the almond paste melts into the dough and adds a depth you cannot get from extract every winter my aunt would let me decorate the tops with pine nuts before baking

Storage tips

Store Pignoli cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days for longer freshness pop them into the freezer in a single layer once frozen transfer to a sealed bag and keep up to two months let thaw at room temp before serving

Ingredient substitutions

Marzipan can be used in place of almond paste if you cannot find the latter though the result will be a bit sweeter and firmer if pine nuts are hard to find try slivered almonds on top but the taste will be slightly different

Serving suggestions

Serve these cookies with espresso or a glass of dessert wine for a traditional finish in Italy they are often enjoyed after a meal or wrapped up as part of a festive cookie tin perfect as a host gift

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Cultural and historical context

Pignoli cookies originated in Southern Italy especially Sicily and are cherished in Italian American bakeries across the United States their simple preparation and rich nutty flavor celebrate the region’s love of almonds and pine nuts these cookies are a symbol of celebration and togetherness during special occasions

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes pignoli cookies unique?

The combination of almond paste and pine nuts gives these cookies their distinct aroma, chewy texture, and nutty flavor.

→ Can I substitute almond paste?

Almond paste is key for authenticity and texture. Marzipan may be used in a pinch, but the sweetness and consistency will differ.

→ How do I prevent the cookies from sticking?

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and prevent sticking.

→ Should I toast the pine nuts?

Lightly toasting the pine nuts enhances their flavor and adds a pleasant crunch to the topping.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and softness for several days.

→ Are these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, since they contain no flour, making them naturally gluten-free.