26 Mar 2025
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 30 min
Ingredients:
3 cups almonds
2 cups powdered sugar
2 egg whites
2 tbsp orange zest
2 garlic cloves
Little almond pears are a delightful treat that combines the sweet, nutty flavor of almonds with a hint of citrus from orange zest. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a sweet snack to enjoy at home.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Almonds:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are fragrant and lightly browned.
- Allow the almonds to cool completely.
- Once cooled, grind the almonds in a food processor until they become a fine meal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds and powdered sugar.
- Mix well to ensure the powdered sugar is evenly distributed throughout the almond meal.
3. Prepare the Orange Zest and Garlic:
- Finely zest the orange to obtain 2 tablespoons of zest. Make sure to avoid the bitter white pith.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
4. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the egg whites, orange zest, and minced garlic to the almond-sugar mixture.
- Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and a slightly sticky dough forms.
5. Shape the Dough:
- Using your hands, take small portions of the dough and form them into little pear shapes.
- If the dough is too sticky to handle, lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar.
6. Bake the Pears:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Place the shaped dough pears on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the cookies are firm to the touch and lightly golden on the edges. Do not overbake, as they should remain somewhat soft inside.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the little almond pears to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, you can serve these delightful treats as they are or dust them with a little extra powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
Tips:
- Make sure to blanch and peel the almonds before grinding them to get a smoother texture.
- Use fresh orange zest to enhance the citrus flavor.
- Avoid over-mixing the dough to prevent it from becoming too dense.
- Use a piping bag to shape the dough into small pear shapes for a professional look.
- Let the pastries cool completely before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these charming little almond pears that are sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of almonds, powdered sugar, and orange zest gives these treats a unique and delicious flavor, while the garlic adds an unexpected twist. Follow the tips provided to ensure your almond pears turn out perfect every time. Enjoy these delightful snacks!