Pignoli Cookie Recipe recipe photo - Pignoli Cookie Recipe by Jan

Pignoli Cookie Recipe

Published: August 31, 2025 Prep Time: About 20 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Serves: 24 cookies Difficulty: Medium Category: Dessert Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 cup pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  3. In a large bowl, mix almond flour, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and salt.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until frothy.
  5. Add vanilla and almond extract to egg whites.
  6. Add egg white mixture to almond flour mixture.
  7. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  8. Add flour and mix until combined.
  9. Shape dough into 1-inch balls.
  10. Roll each ball in pine nuts.
  11. Place on prepared baking sheets.
  12. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
  13. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before removing.

Special Notes

These traditional Italian cookies are perfect for special occasions. The combination of almond flour, pine nuts, and egg whites creates a chewy, nutty cookie that's both elegant and delicious. The key is to not overmix the dough and to roll the cookies in pine nuts while the dough is still soft. It's a great way to enjoy a classic Italian treat that's both beautiful and satisfying.