Are you looking for a delicious and unique cookie recipe to impress your friends and family? Look no further! Pignoli cookies, also known as Italian pine nut cookies, are a classic treat that can be enjoyed any time of year. These buttery, crunchy cookies are packed with toasted pine nuts and have a subtle sweetness that makes them irresistible.
From traditional recipes to modern twists, we’ve gathered 18 delicious pignoli cookie recipes for every occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special holiday or just want a sweet treat after dinner, these cookies are sure to please. In this article, we’ll explore the world of pignoli cookies and share our favorite recipes with you.
Traditional Italian Pignoli Cookies
These classic Italian cookies are a staple of holiday celebrations and special occasions. With their sweet and nutty flavors, they’re sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pine nuts (pignoli)
– 1 egg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until combined.
4. Stir in pine nuts.
5. Beat in egg.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Almond Flour Pignoli Cookies
Pignoli cookies are a classic Italian favorite, typically made with semolina flour and pine nuts. This recipe gives the traditional treat a nutty twist by substituting almond flour for semolina and adding crunchy sliced almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together granulated sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Fold in sliced almonds.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Gluten-Free Pignoli Cookies
A classic Italian cookie gets a gluten-free makeover! These delicate treats are perfect for any occasion, and can be easily customized with your favorite nuts or flavorings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and baking soda.
3. Add orange zest, egg, and lemon juice to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegan Pignoli Cookies
Vegan Pignoli Cookies: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Italian Treat
These chewy cookies are made with the perfect combination of almond flour, coconut sugar, and espresso powder to create a deliciously rich flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup espresso powder
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add espresso powder, non-dairy milk, and apple cider vinegar. Mix until smooth.
4. Fold in chopped hazelnuts, if using.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Orange Zest Pignoli Cookies
These cookies combine the traditional Italian pignoli with the vibrant flavor of orange zest, creating a unique and delicious treat. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these cookies are sure to brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup almonds, toasted and chopped
– 1/4 cup orange zest (from about 2 oranges)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add almonds, orange zest, and baking powder; stir until combined.
4. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and orange juice.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Glazed Pignoli Cookies
These sweet and tangy cookies combine the traditional anise flavor of pignoli with a burst of citrus from fresh lemon zest. Perfect for a springtime treat or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon anise extract
– 1 egg
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Add anise extract and mix well.
4. Beat in egg and lemon zest until combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow to cool before glazing with a mixture of lemon juice and confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Pignoli Cookies
These classic Italian cookies get a luxurious twist with a rich chocolate coating. Crunchy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and indulgent in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine pine nuts, butter, egg whites, and almond extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before dipping in melted chocolate.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pistachio and Pignoli Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the nutty flavor of pistachios with the crunch of pignoli seeds, creating a unique and irresistible treat. Perfect for dunking in espresso or enjoying as a sweet snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup pistachio meal
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon pignoli seeds
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and pistachio meal until smooth. Add chopped pistachios, pignoli seeds, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Double Almond Pignoli Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with the rich flavor of almonds and the sweetness of powdered sugar. Perfect for dunking in tea or coffee, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in almond extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until combined.
6. Stir in sliced almonds and chopped almonds.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey-Sweetened Pignoli Cookies
These classic Italian cookies are a staple during the holiday season, but you don’t have to wait until then to enjoy them! This recipe uses honey instead of traditional confectioner’s sugar for a slightly different flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Pinch of nutmeg
– Pine nuts (about 1/2 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in pine nuts.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rosewater Infused Pignoli Cookies
These delicate cookies are infused with the sweet and floral essence of rosewater, perfect for a romantic treat or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and rosewater to the dry ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Syrup Pignoli Cookies
These buttery cookies are infused with the rich flavor of maple syrup, perfect for a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add maple syrup and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Fold in chopped pecans.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Espresso Dusted Pignoli Cookies
Espresso Dusted Pignoli Cookies: A delightful twist on the classic Italian cookie, these treats combine the richness of espresso with the crunch of pine nuts and the sweetness of sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1 tablespoon espresso powder (strongly brewed or instant)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture, beating until just combined. Fold in pine nuts.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and espresso powder while still warm.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Coconut Pignoli Cookies
These sweet treats combine the traditional pine nut filling of pignoli cookies with the creamy richness of coconut, creating a unique and delicious flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup chopped pine nuts (or walnuts or pecans)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Stir in coconut and pine nuts.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cardamom Spiced Pignoli Cookies
Elevate your holiday baking with these aromatic cookies infused with the warm, sweet flavor of cardamom and crunchy pine nuts. Perfect for a festive gathering or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1 cup pine nuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, cardamom, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg yolk until light and fluffy. Add almond extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
5. Fold in pine nuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Jam-Filled Pignoli Cookies
These classic Italian cookies are a staple during the holiday season. With their crunchy almond exterior and soft, jam-filled center, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon jam or preserves (such as raspberry or apricot)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and almonds.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before filling with jam.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pignoli and Anise Cookies
These classic Italian cookies are a delightful combination of crunchy pignoli (pine nut) and sweet anise. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious batch of these tender treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon anise extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pignoli (pine nuts)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until light and fluffy. Add anise extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Fold in pignoli.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cherry-Almond Pignoli Cookies
These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of cherries with the nutty flavor of almonds, wrapped in a crispy cookie package.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup almond meal
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup cherry preserves
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and almond meal.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in cherry preserves and sliced almonds.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat with these 18 delicious Pignoli cookies recipes! From traditional Italian-style to modern twists like almond flour and vegan options, there’s something for every occasion. Try orange zest and lemon glaze for a bright and citrusy flavor or go classic with chocolate-dipped and pistachio-crusted. For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free, vegan, and honey-sweetened options are available. Spice up your holiday cookie exchange with rosewater-infused and cardamom-spiced varieties. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or an impressive dessert, these Pignoli cookies recipes have got you covered.
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