Pignoli Almond Pine Nuts (Printable Version)

Tender almond paste bites rolled in pine nuts, baked to golden perfection with a sweet powdered sugar finish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Base

01 - 8 ounces almond paste
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
04 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
05 - 1 large whole egg

→ Coating and finishing

06 - 2/3 cup pine nuts
07 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Break almond paste into smaller chunks and place into a large food processor. Add granulated sugar and pulse for approximately 2 minutes until a paste forms and sugar begins to dissolve.
02 - Add vanilla extract, salt, and the whole egg to the food processor. Pulse until the mixture forms a cohesive dough.
03 - Transfer dough onto plastic wrap and shape into a loose roll or ball. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours to firm up.
04 - Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pour pine nuts into a bowl.
05 - Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it lightly in pine nuts until partially coated. Arrange formed pieces on the baking sheet spaced approximately 2 inches apart.
06 - Bake for 16 to 18 minutes until edges turn light golden brown. Centers may remain soft and shiny, which is expected.
07 - Allow cookies to cool completely, then dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Chilling the dough thoroughly ensures easier handling and better texture after baking.
02 - Soft centers are characteristic of traditional pignoli cookies and indicate correct baking time.