Amaretti (Italian Almond Macaroons)

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound blanched almonds
• 4 drops bitter almond oil
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 egg whites
• 1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar

Method

1. Heat oven to 250 degrees F.
2. Finely grind blanched almonds, in batches, using a hand grinder, blender or food processor.
3. Combine almonds with almond oil, sugar and lightly beaten egg whites. Knead mixture into a firm dough.
4. With moistened hands, form dough into 1-inch diameter balls (about 45 balls). Place balls at least 1 inch apart on a baking sheet covered with baking parchment, using a second baking sheet if needed.
5. Place baking sheet on bottom rack of oven and bake for about 55 to 60 minutes.
6. Transfer baked cookies to a wire rack.
7. Using a fine sieve, dust cookies with confectioners' sugar while warm.