Delicate, nutty, and dusted with a cloud of powdered sugar, these Italian Almond Wedding Cookies are a timeless treat. Made with buttery, mild olive oil instead of butter, they’re melt-in-your-mouth tender with a subtle almond aroma. Perfect for weddings, holidays, or afternoon tea, their rich flavor and crumbly texture make them irresistible — and no one will guess they’re made without butter.
INGREDIENTS:
2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups confectioner’s sugar, divided
1 cup almond meal, toasted
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, buttery or mild-flavored
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 teaspoons almond extract
METHOD:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, almond meal, baking soda, and salt.
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir with a spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms. Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
When ready to bake, heat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll small portions of dough into 1-inch balls (about the size of a large marble) and place them 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Flatten each slightly with your fingertips.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, roll cookies in the remaining 1 cup confectioners’ sugar until evenly coated. For an extra snowy look, give them a second dusting before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
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Serve alongside espresso, Vin Santo, or a glass of prosecco for an Italian-style finish.
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Package in tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for holiday gifts or wedding favors.
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Add a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds for extra crunch.
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Pair with lemon gelato or raspberry sorbet for a light dessert plate.
YIELD: Makes about 40 cookies.
