Lite almond, pine nut and orange macaroons

Lite almond, pine nut, and orange macaroons combine nutty flavors with zesty orange for a light and delightful cookie. They're easy to make and perfect for sharing on any dessert table.

25 Nov 2025
Cook time 22 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 cup almonds
3/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup bread crumbs
2 egg whites
2 tbsp orange zest
1/3 cup pine nuts
Lite almond, pine nut and orange macaroons

Lite almond, pine nut, and orange macaroons are delectable treats that are perfect for those who crave something sweet but want to keep it light. This recipe combines the nutty flavors of almonds and pine nuts with the zesty brightness of orange to create a delightful cookie that's not overly sweet. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, these macaroons are a great addition to any dessert table or snack platter.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Prepare the Almonds:
- If your almonds are not pre-ground, place them in a food processor and pulse until they are finely ground. Be careful not to over-process them into almond butter.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground almonds, sugar, and bread crumbs. Stir well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Prepare the Egg Whites:
- In a separate, clean, dry bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form soft peaks. You can use an electric mixer for convenience. This means the egg whites should be thick and foamy but not too stiff.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gently fold the egg whites into the dry mixture. Do this gradually, incorporating the egg whites in parts to maintain the airy texture.
- Once combined, fold in the orange zest and ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
6. Shape the Macaroons:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the batter and form them into small balls. If the mixture is too sticky, you can wet your hands slightly or use a small cookie scoop for uniformity.
- Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart as they may spread slightly.
7. Add Pine Nuts:
- Gently press a few pine nuts on top of each macaroon. You can do this individually or sprinkle them over all the macaroons.
8. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the macaroons are golden brown around the edges and slightly firm to the touch.
9. Cool:
- Allow the macaroons to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve:
- Once completely cooled, serve and enjoy your lite almond, pine nut, and orange macaroons! Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

These lite almond, pine nut, and orange macaroons are a delightful fusion of flavors that are sure to impress. Whether you're serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a personal treat, the combination of the nutty almonds and pine nuts with the fresh zing of orange is simply irresistible. With these tips, you can ensure that your macaroons turn out perfectly every time. Enjoy!

Lite almond, pine nut and orange macaroons FAQ:

What is the baking time for these macaroons?

Bake the macaroons in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges and slightly firm to the touch.

How can I tell if the macaroons are done?

The macaroons are done when they have a golden brown color around the edges and feel slightly firm to the touch. They should not be soft or sticky in the center.

Can I store leftover macaroons, and if so, how?

Yes, store any leftover macaroons in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for slightly longer freshness.

What can I use as a substitute for sugar in this recipe?

You can use a granulated sugar substitute that measures cup-for-cup like erythritol or stevia. Adjust according to your taste preferences and check the specific substitution guidelines.

Can I use different nuts instead of almonds and pine nuts?

Yes, you can substitute almonds with other nuts like cashews or walnuts, and pine nuts with chopped pecans or hazelnuts, keeping in mind that the flavor and texture may vary.

Tips:

- For best results, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before starting to mix them. This helps in achieving the right consistency.

- To enhance the flavor, lightly toast the almonds and pine nuts before using them in the recipe.

- Use a fine grater for the orange zest to get the most vibrant flavor without the bitterness of the pith.

- If you prefer a more even texture, pulse the almonds in a food processor until finely ground.

- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the macaroons from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 320kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 3.05g
Sugar 30g
Fat 16g

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