These soft, chewy Italian macarons are simple, easy, and bursting with big almond flavor. A classic Christmas cookie, they are perfect for the holidays. Based on a recipe shared by Beth Darling
Preheat oven to 325°F | 165°C. Line baking pan with parchment paper.
In a stand mixer or food processor, blend the almond paste, sugar, and salt until crumbly.
In a separate mixing bowl, beat egg whites until very frothy. (Don’t beat long enough to form peaks.)
Gradually add almond extract, bitter almond oil, and beaten egg whites to the almond paste mixture.
Using a small cookie scoop, form cookies and place on prepared baking sheet.Sprinkle cookies lightly with confectioners' sugar and sliced almonds.Using three fingers, press indentations into the center of each cookie. (This keeps them from puffing up too much during baking.)
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the very edges are just turning golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool.
Notes
Almond paste can be found in most grocery stores; usually in the baking section near the pie fillings. You can also make almond paste at home.