Italian Cherry Almond Cookies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Base

01 - 252g almond flour
02 - 150g granulated sugar
03 - 1 small lemon, zested
04 - 2 egg whites (from large eggs)
05 - ¾ teaspoon almond extract

→ Coating & Garnish

06 - 90g powdered sugar
07 - 18 maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 175°C. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until well combined.
03 - Add the egg whites and almond extract to the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms. The dough may appear crumbly at first but will come together with continued mixing.
04 - Divide the dough into approximately 18 equal portions and roll into balls.
05 - Place powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll each dough ball in the powdered sugar until fully coated, then arrange on the prepared baking sheet about 2.5cm apart.
06 - Using your thumb, gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie. Don't worry if the edges crack slightly.
07 - Place one dried cherry into each indentation.
08 - Bake for 14-18 minutes, until the cookie bottoms are slightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

# Notes:

01 - These traditional Italian cookies are naturally gluten-free and feature a delicate almond flavor complemented by the sweet cherry garnish.