Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 4 large egg whites
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup pignoli (pine nuts)
Special Equipment Needed:
- 2 baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, powdered sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer until foamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and almond extract and beat until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold almond flour mixture into egg whites until combined.
5. Fold in white chocolate chips, dried cherries, and pignoli.
6. Drop batter by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes about 24 macaroons
Nutritional Information (per macaroon):
Calories: 90
Fat: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 9 g
Protein: 2 g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Almond flour: can be substituted with hazelnut flour
- White chocolate chips: can be substituted with dark chocolate chips
- Dried cherries: can be substituted with dried cranberries or raisins
- Pignoli: can be substituted with chopped walnuts or pecans
Variations:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon for a spiced version
- Add 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom for a unique flavor
- Add 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger for a zesty flavor
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form for the best texture
- To ensure even baking, make sure the macaroons are the same size and shape
- For a sweeter version, add an extra tablespoon of granulated sugar
Storage Instructions:
Store macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Macaroons can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve macaroons on a platter with a drizzle of melted white chocolate
- Place macaroons in a decorative jar for a unique presentation
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar
- Drizzle with melted white chocolate
Pairings:
- Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee
- Enjoy with a glass of cold milk
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Yogurt parfait
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If macaroons are too dry, add an extra tablespoon of almond flour
- If macaroons are too wet, add an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before using
- Refrigerate any leftover macaroons within 2 hours of baking
Food History:
Macaroons are a traditional French cookie that have been around for centuries. They are made with almond flour and egg whites and are often flavored with almond extract.
Flavor Profiles:
White Chocolate-Cherry Pignolo Macaroons have a sweet, nutty flavor with hints of white chocolate and tart cherries.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert after a meal
- Enjoy as a snack with a cup of coffee
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A