Rustic Almond-Orange Macaroons are a delightful treat that brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh oranges and the rich nuttiness of almonds. These little cookies are not only simple to make but also lend a touch of elegance to your dessert table. With a crisp exterior and a soft, chewy interior, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a festive celebration.
Gather Your Rustic Almond-Orange Macaroons Ingredients
To whip up these delicious macaroons, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 oranges
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons (130g) skin-on whole almonds
- 1 teaspoon orange flower water
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 large egg whites, beaten to blend
- Ground cinnamon, cardamom, or garam masala for dusting (optional)
Step-by-Step Rustic Almond-Orange Macaroons Recipe
- Line two sheet pans with parchment paper. This will keep the macaroons from sticking and make cleanup easier.
- In a food processor, combine 1/4 cup of sugar and the zest of 1 orange. Pulse until the sugar is beautifully tinted pale orange.
- Add the remaining sugar and whole almonds to the processor, continuing to process until the almonds are finely ground.
- Scrape down the bowl, and then add the orange flower water, almond extract, and salt. Pulse to mix everything well.
- Gradually pour in the beaten egg whites while continuing to pulse, until a sticky dough starts to form.
- Incorporate the zest of the second orange and pulse briefly to combine.
- Drop the dough by generous teaspoons onto the prepared pans, ensuring they’re spaced about 2 inches apart. If you like, dust the tops with your choice of spices.
- Allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes. This step helps enhance the flavors.
- Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Bake the macaroons for about 25 minutes, switching the pans halfway through to ensure they bake evenly. They should be puffed up and lightly browned.
- Cool the macaroons on wire racks before storing them in an airtight container.
The Best Way to Serve It
Rustic Almond-Orange Macaroons can be served in various delightful ways. They are perfect on their own, showcasing their unique flavors. For an impressive presentation, arrange them on a decorative plate and dust with a little extra ground spice for a pop of color.
Pair these delicious treats with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack! They also make a lovely addition to dessert platters for gatherings or celebrations.
Helpful Tricks for Rustic Almond-Orange Macaroons
- Storage: Keep the macaroons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage – just ensure they are well-wrapped!
- Nuts Variations: Feel free to swap the almonds with other nuts such as hazelnuts or pistachios for different flavor profiles. Just adjust the grinding time accordingly!
- Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or cardamom to customize the aroma of your macaroons.
Rustic Almond-Orange Macaroons FAQs
Can I use other citrus fruits?
Yes! While the orange flavor is key, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like lemon or lime for a different twist.
How do I know when the macaroons are done baking?
Look for a puffed shape and a lightly browned surface. They should not feel wet or sticky to the touch.
What if I don’t have orange flower water?
If you can’t find orange flower water, you can omit it or use a splash of fresh orange juice for added flavor.
Give Rustic Almond-Orange Macaroons a try, and you’ll soon find yourself reaching for these delightful bites again and again. Happy baking!