Amaretti with Nutella

Amaretti with Nutella

Amaretti with Nutella

By Master Chef Gianluca Deiana Abis

History of Amaretti with Nutella

Amaretti are traditional almond-based cookies from Sardinia and northern Italy, known for their rich, nutty flavor and crisp texture. They are typically made with ground almonds, egg whites, and sugar, creating a chewy interior with a crispy exterior. Nutella, on the other hand, is the beloved chocolate-hazelnut spread that has become a staple in Italian homes and kitchens worldwide.

The combination of these two Italian classics—Amaretti and Nutella—creates a delicious contrast between the almond-flavored crispness of the cookies and the smooth, creamy richness of the Nutella filling. This modern twist on a traditional cookie is perfect for dessert, a snack, or a special treat during holidays or gatherings.

Ingredients (Makes about 12 cookies)

• For the Amaretti Cookies:

  • 1 cup (150g) ground almonds

  • 1/2 cup (100g) sugar

  • 2 large egg whites

  • 1 teaspoon almond extract

  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • A pinch of salt

• For the Filling:

  • 1/2 cup Nutella (or more, depending on your preference)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Amaretti Dough:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ground almonds, sugar, and salt.

• In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form (using a hand mixer or whisk).

• Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the almond and sugar mixture until the dough is well combined. Add the almond extract and vanilla extract to the dough, stirring until smooth. The dough should be sticky but firm enough to handle.

2. Shape the Cookies:

• Take small spoonfuls of dough and roll them into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

• Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

• Flatten each ball slightly using the back of a spoon, then bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden brown around the edges. They should still be soft in the center but firm up as they cool.

3. Cool the Cookies:

• Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, you can proceed with filling them.

4. Add the Nutella Filling:

• Once the cookies have completely cooled, take a spoonful of Nutella and spread it on the flat side of one cookie.

• Place another cookie on top to form a sandwich, pressing gently to secure the filling inside.

• If desired, you can roll the edges of the cookies in powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a festive appearance.

5. Serve:

• Serve these delicious Amaretti with Nutella as a treat with coffee, tea, or dessert wine. They are perfect for any occasion, especially when you want to impress guests with a sweet, Italian-inspired bite.

Chef Tips:

1. Use Fresh Almonds:To achieve the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality almonds, or grind them yourself if possible. Freshly ground almonds give the cookies a more aromatic and flavorful taste.

2. Egg Whites:Be sure not to overbeat the egg whites. They should be beaten to soft peaks, which will provide the delicate texture and lightness that makes Amaretti cookies so delightful.

3. Filling Variations:While Nutella is a classic choice, you can experiment with different fillings, such as mascarpone cheese mixed with a bit of honey or fruit preserves for a lighter alternative.

4. Storage:These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. If you want to make them in advance, you can freeze the cookies without filling, and then add the Nutella just before serving.

Wine Pairing:

1. Vin Santo (Tuscany):Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine from Tuscany, pairs beautifully with the nutty Amaretti and the rich Nutella filling. The wine’s deep, honeyed flavors complement the sweet and almondy cookies.

2. Moscato d'Asti (Piedmont):A glass of Moscato d'Asti, with its light bubbles and fruity sweetness, works wonderfully with the chocolate-hazelnut richness of the Nutella and the delicate almond flavor of the cookies.

3. Passito di Pantelleria (Sicily):Passito di Pantelleria, a rich, dessert wine from Sicily, has the perfect balance of sweetness and complexity to pair with these indulgent cookies. Its deep, dried fruit flavors make it an ideal match for Nutella-filled pastries.

Enjoy your Amaretti with Nutella!

These cookies combine the best of both worlds—traditional Amaretti and creamy Nutella—to create an unforgettable treat. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the delicious flavors of Italy. Buon Appetito!