Desserts > Italian Desserts > Italian Cookies

Ricciarelli with Orange Blossom Water and Pistachios Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup orange blossom water
- 2 egg whites
- 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped

Special equipment needed:
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the almond flour, powdered sugar, and orange zest.
3. Add the orange blossom water and egg whites to the bowl and mix until a dough forms.
4. On a piece of parchment paper, roll the dough into a log shape and flatten slightly.
5. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top of the dough and press them in lightly.
6. Bake the ricciarelli for 25-30 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
8. Cut the ricciarelli into slices and serve.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
325°F
Serving size:
Makes 12-15 slices

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 180
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almond flour can be substituted with hazelnut flour or all-purpose flour.
- Orange blossom water can be substituted with rose water or vanilla extract.
- Pistachios can be substituted with almonds or hazelnuts.

Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dough for chocolate ricciarelli.
- Substitute the orange zest with lemon zest for a different flavor.
- Add 1/4 cup of dried cranberries or raisins to the dough for a fruity twist.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to use parchment paper to prevent the ricciarelli from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Let the ricciarelli cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to prevent them from falling apart.
- Store the ricciarelli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Storage instructions:
Store the ricciarelli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Reheating instructions:
The ricciarelli can be reheated in the oven at 325°F for 5-10 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the ricciarelli on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint.

Garnishes:
Dust with powdered sugar and top with a few extra chopped pistachios.

Pairings:
Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve with fresh fruit or a cheese plate.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of orange blossom water at a time until it comes together.
- If the dough is too wet, add a tablespoon of almond flour at a time until it firms up.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to use fresh ingredients and wash your hands and equipment thoroughly before starting.

Food history:
Ricciarelli are traditional Italian almond cookies that originated in Siena, Italy.

Flavor profiles:
The ricciarelli have a nutty, sweet flavor with a hint of orange blossom water.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the ricciarelli as a dessert or snack.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Citrusy, Aromatic