Little almond pears

Little almond pears are a sweet treat made from ground almonds, powdered sugar, and a hint of citrus zest. These delightful, pear-shaped cookies are baked to a golden finish, offering a nutty flavor with a subtle garlic undertone.

06 Jan 2026
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.

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!

Little almond pears FAQ:

How long do I bake the Little Almond Pears?

Bake the Little Almond Pears in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 18-20 minutes. They should be firm to the touch and lightly golden on the edges, but remain somewhat soft inside.

What should I do if the dough is too sticky to shape?

If the dough is too sticky to handle, lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar. This will make it easier to shape the dough into little pear shapes.

Can I use almond flour instead of ground almonds?

Yes, you can use almond flour as a substitute for ground almonds. However, be aware that the texture may be slightly different, as almond flour is generally finer.

How should I store the Little Almond Pears?

Store the Little Almond Pears in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them, but it's best to consume them fresh.

What is the purpose of garlic in this recipe?

The garlic adds a unique savory undertone to the sweetness of the almonds and orange zest, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the Little Almond Pears.

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.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 420kcal
Protein 10g
Carbohydrates 50g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 40g
Fat 22g

Little almond pears