Italian crunchy almond cookies (Castagnelle) Recipe

If you’re searching for a delightful treat to brighten your day or impress your guests, these Italian crunchy almond cookies (Castagnelle) are an absolute must-try. These charming little cookies deliver a perfect balance of crunchy toasted almonds, warm hints of cinnamon and cocoa, and a whisper of fresh orange zest. Each bite is like a comforting hug that takes you straight to an authentic Italian kitchen. They are crisp yet tender and carry a subtle coffee undertone that elevates their complexity. Whether enjoyed with your morning espresso or as a sweet finale to dinner, these cookies will instantly become one of your favorite go-to classics.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting these cookies is wonderfully simple, but each ingredient plays a special role in creating their signature texture and flavor. From the raw almonds to the fresh coffee, every element enhances the final result in its own unique way.

• Raw almonds: Toasting them intensifies their natural flavor and provides that satisfying crunch.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough, offering structure and the perfect bite.
• Granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the cocoa and spices.
• Baking powder: Lightens the dough just enough to keep the cookies tender inside while crunchy outside.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch processed): Brings an earthy chocolate depth that pairs beautifully with almonds and coffee.
• Ground cinnamon: Infuses warm, fragrant spice that enriches the almond flavor.
• Zest of 1 organic orange: Brightens the cookies with fresh, citrusy notes that lift the richness.
• Fresh hot coffee: A secret ingredient that adds complexity and a subtle roasted flavor.
• Milk (dairy or plant based): Helps bind the dough, contributing moisture without overwhelming the crunch.
• Powdered sugar: For dusting, to add a delicate touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish.

How to Make Italian crunchy almond cookies (Castagnelle)

Step 1: Prepare and Toast the Almonds

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the raw almonds evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Toast them for about 15 to 20 minutes or until you can smell their irresistible fragrance. This step unlocks the deep nutty flavors and enhances that signature crunch. Once toasted, finely chop the almonds so they blend perfectly into the dough without overpowering the texture.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

While your almonds cool, grab a mixing bowl and combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cocoa powder, and cinnamon. Mixing these dry components thoroughly ensures every cookie bites with the right balance of sweetness, warmth, and a subtle chocolate undertone. Then stir in the chopped almonds along with that vibrant orange zest. This little burst of citrus is what gives your cookies a lively, fresh personality.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients and Form the Dough

Make a well in your dry mixture’s center and slowly pour in the fresh hot coffee and milk, whisking gently as you go. The warmth from the coffee helps melt the sugar and activate the spices, while the milk adds just enough moisture to bring the dough together. Knead gently until the dough forms a stiff lump that doesn’t stick or crumble. Don’t hesitate to adjust by adding a tablespoon of liquid if too dry, or a touch more flour if it gets sticky – finding this balance is key to those perfect cookies.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Divide your beautifully mixed dough into four equal parts. Lightly flour your fingers and roll each piece into a thin log, about 10 inches long and 1 inch thick (25 x 2.5 cm). Cut the logs diagonally into roughly 1-inch segments. This shaping technique not only makes each cookie look elegant but also helps them bake evenly. Arrange them carefully on a parchment-lined baking tray, spacing them about half an inch apart to allow room for baking.

Step 5: Bake until Just Set

Place your tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Watch closely for when the cookies feel set to the touch but remain slightly soft when pressed – this ensures they’ll achieve that satisfying crunch once cooled without becoming too hard or dry.

Step 6: Cool and Dust

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely to room temperature. The magic happens here as they crisp up beautifully. Finally, dust them generously with powdered sugar to add a sweet finish and an irresistible snowy appearance. Store your Italian crunchy almond cookies (Castagnelle) in an airtight container and enjoy their freshness for up to two weeks—or longer if you resist eating them all at once!

How to Serve Italian crunchy almond cookies (Castagnelle)

Garnishes

While these cookies are stunning on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar really elevates their rustic charm and adds a delicate sweetness with every bite. For special occasions, a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest or a few whole toasted almonds on top can create a beautiful presentation that dazzles your guests.

Side Dishes

Pair your Italian crunchy almond cookies (Castagnelle) with a rich espresso, cappuccino, or even a glass of dessert wine like Vin Santo for a classic Italian experience. They also complement bowls of fresh fruit or creamy gelato, making the cookie a versatile companion for many desserts.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these cookies on a rustic wooden platter lined with parchment paper and scatter fresh orange slices and cinnamon sticks around for a cozy, welcoming vibe. Alternatively, create charming cookie gift bags or boxes tied with twine and a sprig of rosemary—perfect for sharing these little Italian treasures with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because these cookies hold their crunch so well, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, which can soften their texture. Properly stored, they stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks, though they rarely last that long in our house!

Freezing

If you want to keep Italian crunchy almond cookies (Castagnelle) on hand for longer, they freeze beautifully. Place them in a sealed freezer bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready, simply thaw at room temperature—fresh homemade cookies anytime!

Reheating

To bring a bit of that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth back, pop your cookies in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 5 minutes. This little trick refreshes the crunch and revives the aromatic flavors, making every bite taste just as wonderful as the first time.

FAQs

Can I use pre-ground almonds instead of raw almonds?

While pre-ground almonds save a step, toasting whole raw almonds before chopping enhances their flavor and texture significantly. This extra effort makes your cookies extra crunchy and flavorful, so we recommend sticking to raw.

What if I don’t have Dutch processed cocoa powder?

You can substitute natural cocoa powder, but keep in mind the flavor might be a bit more acidic and less mellow. Dutch processed cocoa lends a rich, smooth earthiness that becomes part of the cookies’ charm.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be mindful that texture might vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious.

Why is fresh hot coffee used in the dough?

Using hot coffee helps dissolve the sugar and awaken the spices, while imparting subtle roasted notes that deepen the flavor profile. Cooling coffee won’t integrate the same way.

How long do these cookies last stored at room temperature?

When kept airtight, these cookies usually stay crisp and tasty for up to two weeks. They are so tempting, though, that they rarely stick around that long!

Final Thoughts

Making these Italian crunchy almond cookies (Castagnelle) will soon become one of your favorite kitchen adventures. Their simple ingredients come together with magic to create a cookie that’s crisp, flavorful, and wonderfully uplifting. Whether you’re baking a batch for yourself or sharing them with your loved ones, the warm aromas and extraordinary taste are guaranteed to bring joy. So go ahead and give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!

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