Looking for an easy almond macaroons recipe that yields crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside cookies? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you call them almond macaroon cookies, old fashioned almond macaroons, or just a sweet treat, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to dessert success. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly how to whip up the best almond macaroons recipe—gluten-free option included.
Need a savory dish before dessert? Pair these almond macaroon cookies with my White Bean and Bacon Soup for a comforting lunch or dinner!
Why You’ll Love These Almond Macaroons
- Gluten-Free Friendly: If you use GF-verified almond paste (or make your own), you’ll have a dessert safe for gluten-free diets.
- Crispy-Chewy Texture: The perfect combination—golden, lightly crackled tops with soft centers.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need almond paste, sugar, and egg whites (plus a little technique) for authentic flavor.
- Classic or Modern Twist: Enjoy them as old fashioned almond macaroons or spice it up by adding a drizzle of chocolate.
Preparing the Almond Paste
One of the keys to easy almond macaroons recipe success is ensuring a smooth mixture before baking. Here’s how:
- Break It Up: Crumble the almond paste into small pieces to blend more evenly.
- Use a Food Processor: Pulse the sugar and almond paste first for a uniform texture before adding the egg whites.
- Check Consistency: The dough should be smooth (slightly sticky is okay).
Craving a quick breakfast to pair with these almond macaroon cookies? Try my Easy Gluten-Free Egg Bites for a protein boost in the morning.
Key Ingredients
- Almond Paste: Provides that signature, rich almond flavor and classic chewy bite.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a lightly crisp exterior.
- Egg Whites: The binding agent that gives these cookies structure and puff.
Step-by-Step Guide
Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Combine Almond Paste & Sugar
- In a food processor (or large mixing bowl), process the almond paste and sugar until thoroughly combined.
Add Egg Whites
- Once combined, add egg whites.
- Mix until a smooth dough forms (it should be slightly thick but spreadable).
Spoon or Pipe
- Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls (about 1 inch apart) onto the prepared baking sheets.
- If you prefer uniform circles, you can pipe the mixture.
Bake
- Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden around the edges.
- The tops may crack slightly—this is normal.
Cool Completely
- Let them cool on the baking sheets to firm up.
- Peel them from the parchment only once they’re fully cool to avoid sticking.
Serve & Store
- Enjoy right away or store in an airtight container for up to five days.
FAQ
Yes—if you use gluten-free almond paste, these almond macaroon cookies are naturally gluten free. Always check ingredient labels to confirm there’s no cross-contamination.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. You can also freeze them for up to three months; just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Technically yes, but then you’d need to adjust the sugar and add moisture (like honey or more egg white). This recipe is specifically formulated for almond paste for the authentic chewy texture.
Easy Almond Macaroons Recipe
Equipment
- Food processor (or mixing bowl)
- 2 Baking sheets
- Measuring cups/spoons
Ingredients
- 8 ounce can almond paste, broken into small pieces
- 2 egg whites
- 1 ¼ cups sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Combine almond paste and sugar in a food processor or mixing bowl. Process until thoroughly combined.
- Mix in egg whites until a smooth dough forms.
- Drop the dough by rounded teaspoonfuls onto lined baking sheets, about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden.
- Cool the almond macaroons completely on the baking sheets.
- Peel from the parchment once fully cooled and store in an airtight container.
Notes
Flavor Boost: Add a drop of almond extract for extra almond goodness or drizzle chocolate for a decadent finish.
Gluten-Free Assurance: Double-check that your almond paste is certified gluten free if needed.
