Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the almond paste and granulated sugar, then beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until well combined.
- Add the egg whites one at a time, beating on medium speed for about 1 minute after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Pour in the vanilla extract and salt, then beat for another 30 seconds until the dough is smooth.
- Lightly toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, shaking occasionally.
- Pour the powdered sugar into a small shallow bowl, then scoop the dough into 24 portions using a cookie scoop or tablespoon.
- Roll each ball in the powdered sugar until fully coated, shaking off excess, then place on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Press 4 to 5 pine nuts firmly into the top of each cookie ball.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges are light golden brown and the tops show a slight crack.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Pignoli cookies shine on their own but pair beautifully with coffee, espresso, or sweet wine for an elegant presentation.
