Cookie Exchange: Pignoli Cookies

by Valorie Delp | More from this Blogger

17 Nov 2007 06:56 AM

Cookie exchanges are one of my favorite holiday type parties. It generally goes with the onslaught of pre-Christmas celebrating, but if you're hosting or going to one, now is the time to start thinking about what you're going to bring. I think I really like them because I'm a sugar addict. However, what I tell people in public, is that it's a great place to get family recipes.

Up until Christmas time, I will be featuring some of my favorite cookies from past cookie exchanges. If you would like to request something, simply leave a comment or send me a private message and I'll see what I can come up with.

Pignoli Cookies

These are traditional Italian holiday cookies. I especially like them because they have such a unique flavor.

You will need:

8 ounces of pine nuts

2 to 3 medium egg whites, lightly beaten

1 (8 oz) can almond paste

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

extra powdered sugar for dusting

Directions:

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.

Prepare two baking sheets with parchment paper, or use silicone linings. Place the pine nuts in a bowl.

In a food processor, break up the almond paste into small pieces, and pulse with the two sugars and the flour.

Once the mixture is finely ground, begin to add the egg whites a little at a time, just until the dough comes together. Depending on the size of your whites, sometimes you'll need all the egg whites and other times you won't.

Using a spoon and slightly wet hands, scoop a small spoonful of the dough, and place this into the bowl of pignoli (the pine nuts).

Roll the cookie around until it is lightly coated, and then place it on the prepared baking sheet.

Continue forming the cookies in this manner, placing them 2 inches apart on the baking pan.

Bake the cookies 20 to 25 minutes, and then cool.

Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

Make sure to stop back frequently this holiday season for more great holiday recipes!

Learn more about Valorie Delp

Hello everybody! My name is Valorie and I am one busy lady! When I'm not writing or editing for families, I am busy trying to get my brood of 5 in line.

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