NONNA'S FIG ALMOND COOKIES
These tender and flavorful cookies are perfect for holidays, tea-time, or any occasion when you want a dessert that feels both rustic and refined. Inspired by traditional Italian baking, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Christmas Italian Recipes, Italian Cookies
Cuisine Italian
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 1 cup (150 g) dried figs, stems removed and chopped
- ½ cup (50 g) ground almonds
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp orange zest
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Step-by-Step Method
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold butter and rub it into the dry ingredients with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until the dough comes together into a ball.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a food processor, combine the chopped figs, ground almonds, honey, orange zest, and cinnamon (if using).
- Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve a spreadable consistency.
3. Assemble the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch (0.5 cm) thickness.
- Cut the dough into rectangles, approximately 3 x 2 inches (7.5 x 5 cm).
- Place a small spoonful of the fig filling in the center of each rectangle. Fold the edges over the filling and press gently to seal.
- Arrange the filled cookies seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
5. Serve:
- Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a decorative finish.
- Serve with coffee, tea, or dessert wine.
Keyword fig almond cookies, fig cookies, almond cookies,