Orange Pizzicotti
Orange Pizzicotti is a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of almonds with the refreshing citrus notes of orange zest. These Italian-inspired cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!
What You’ll Need for Orange Pizzicotti
Before we start, gather your ingredients to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 145 g (3/4 cup) sugar
- 145 g (1 cup) blanched almonds
- 15 g (1 tbsp) grated untreated orange zest
- 1 vial (about 5 ml) bitter almond essence
- 10 g (2 tsp) freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 egg white
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make Orange Pizzicotti
Follow these steps to create your delicious cookies:
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Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine sugar, blanched almonds, orange zest, orange juice, and egg white. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
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Chill the Dough: Transfer the dough into a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and chill it in the fridge for at least 3 hours. This step helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to shape.
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Form the Cookies: After chilling, take small amounts of dough and roll them into walnut-sized balls. You should get about 12-13 cookies.
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Dust with Sugar: Roll each cookie in powdered sugar and use your fingers to slightly shape them into a more flattened form.
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Bake: Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in a static oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes or until they turn a light golden color.
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Cool Down: Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving. Enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen!
How to Serve Orange Pizzicotti
The best way to enjoy Orange Pizzicotti is with a cup of tea or coffee. Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter and dust with additional powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They also make a wonderful gift for friends and family. Consider pairing them with some fresh fruit or a light dessert for a well-rounded treat!
Helpful Tricks for Orange Pizzicotti
Here are a couple of tips to enhance your cookie-making experience:
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Zest with Care: Make sure to use untreated oranges for the zest. This ensures no synthetic chemicals are present, enhancing the flavor of your cookies.
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Flavor Options: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a hint of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
Orange Pizzicotti: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw almonds instead of blanched?
Yes, but blanched almonds give a smoother texture, making for a lighter cookie.
How should I store the cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Can I substitute egg white with something else?
You can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as an egg white substitute for a vegan option.
These delightful cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Give Orange Pizzicotti a try, and see how easily they disappear at your next gathering! Happy baking!

Orange Pizzicotti
Ingredients
Method
- In a food processor, combine sugar, blanched almonds, orange zest, orange juice, and egg white. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Transfer the dough into a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and chill it in the fridge for at least 3 hours.
- After chilling, take small amounts of dough and roll them into walnut-sized balls, yielding about 12-13 cookies.
- Roll each cookie in powdered sugar and shape them slightly into a more flattened form.
- Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake in a static oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes or until light golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving.