18 Italian Rainbow Cookies Traditional Recipe Deliciousness Awaits You!
Published on: Mar 17, 2024
Italian rainbow cookies, also known as tri-color cookies or Neapolitan cookies, are a beloved traditional dessert that has been a staple in Italian-American households for generations. These delicious treats are not only visually stunning with their bright layers of red, white, and green, but they also have a unique almond flavor that keeps people coming back for more. In this article, we will dive into the history of these cookies and provide you with a traditional recipe that will have you feeling like a true Italian baker.
These colorful and delicious Italian rainbow cookies are a must-try for any beer can chicken lover. Made with almond paste, these cookies have a unique and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken. Plus, the vibrant colors make for a stunning presentation on the dinner table.
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Italian Rainbow Cookies (Seven-Layer Cookies)
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, Sugar, Almond Paste, Unsalted Butter
If you can't get enough of Italian rainbow cookies, try this recipe that adds even more layers of flavor. With a little bit of jam and chocolate, these cookies will satisfy your sweet tooth while complementing the savory flavors of the chicken.
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Flourless Italian Rainbow Cookies
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, Granulated Sugar, Almond Paste, Unsalted
For those who are looking for a gluten-free option, this flourless version of Italian rainbow cookies is a great choice. Made with almond flour, these cookies have the same delicious taste and texture without the gluten.
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Gluten-Free Italian Rainbow Cookies
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, Sugar, Salted Butter, Almond Paste, Almond
If you're following a gluten-free diet, you don't have to miss out on the classic Italian rainbow cookie. This recipe uses gluten-free flour and almond flour to create a delicious and allergy-friendly version of this beloved treat.
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Italian Rainbow Cookies (Tricolor Cookies with Video!)
Main Ingredients: Vegan Butter, Sugar, Almond Paste, Dairy Free Milk
If you're a visual learner, this recipe is for you. With a helpful video tutorial, you'll be able to recreate these delicious tricolor cookies with ease. And don't forget to pair them with a juicy beer can chicken for the ultimate Italian feast.
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Italian Almond Paste Cookies
Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Almond Paste, Granulated Sugar, Salt
These traditional Italian almond paste cookies are a simple and delicious addition to any beer can chicken meal. Made with almond paste, almond extract, and powdered sugar, these cookies have a delicate texture and a rich almond flavor.
No Italian feast is complete without a plate of meatballs. These flavorful and juicy Italian meatballs are a great side dish to serve with your beer can chicken. And with a few simple ingredients, you can easily make them at home.
Another delicious almond-based cookie, these Italian almond cookies are a great way to end any meal. Made with almond flour, almond extract, and slivered almonds, these cookies are gluten-free and packed with flavor.
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Italian Meatballs {Great Big Italian Meatballs}
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Egg, Fresh Bread Crumbs
If you really want to impress your dinner guests, these giant Italian meatballs are the way to go. Made with a blend of ground beef, pork, and veal, these meatballs are incredibly flavorful and pair perfectly with a juicy beer can chicken.
These soft and fluffy Italian ricotta cookies are a great way to add some sweetness to your beer can chicken dinner. Made with ricotta cheese and lemon zest, these cookies are light and refreshing, making them the perfect dessert after a hearty meal.
This hearty and comforting soup is a staple in many Italian households. With flavorful meatballs, vegetables, and pasta, it's the perfect dish to serve alongside your beer can chicken for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Keto Stuffed Peppers – Italian Style
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Olive Oil, Bell Peppers, Onion
If you're following a keto diet, these Italian-style stuffed peppers are a great way to enjoy the flavors of Italy without the carbs. Made with ground beef, Italian seasoning, and mozzarella cheese, these peppers make for a delicious and low-carb side dish.
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Cucidati Italian Christmas Fig Cookies
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Vanilla Extract
These traditional Italian Christmas cookies are a must-try for any beer can chicken lover. Made with a fig and nut filling and topped with a sweet glaze, these cookies are the perfect blend of sweet and savory.
This easy and delicious casserole is a great way to use up leftovers from your beer can chicken. With layers of crescent rolls, chicken, cheese, and Italian seasoning, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Another great keto-friendly option, these Italian meatballs are made with almond flour instead of breadcrumbs, making them low-carb and gluten-free. Serve them alongside your beer can chicken for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
These savory and delicious stuffed mushrooms are the perfect appetizer to serve with your beer can chicken. Made with Italian sausage, cream cheese, and parmesan cheese, they're sure to be a hit with your dinner guests.
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Quick and Easy Italian Meatballs
Main Ingredients: 85 Lean Ground Beef, Garlic, Large Eggs, Dried
If you're short on time, these quick and easy Italian meatballs are the perfect solution. Made with just a few ingredients, including pre-made meatballs, they're a simple and delicious addition to any beer can chicken meal.
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Sheet Pan Italian Chicken Dinner
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast, Extra Virgin Olive
If you're looking for a complete meal that's easy to make and clean up, this sheet pan Italian chicken dinner is the way to go. With chicken, potatoes, and vegetables all cooked on one pan, you'll have a flavorful and satisfying meal in no time.
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Hearty Italian Beef and Vegetable Soup
Main Ingredients: Medium Onion, Garlic Cloves, Large Carrots, Celery
This hearty and flavorful soup is a great way to use up leftover beer can chicken. With tender pieces of chicken, vegetables, and pasta, it's a complete and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
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Italian Pork Kabobs with Summer Vegetables
Main Ingredients: Pork Loin Roast, Red Wine Vinegar, Kosher Salt, Red
If you're looking for a fun and tasty way to cook your beer can chicken, try these Italian pork kabobs. Packed with flavor and colorful summer vegetables, they're a great addition to any barbecue or outdoor gathering.
Origins of Italian Rainbow Cookies
A Rich History
The origins of Italian rainbow cookies can be traced back to the 19th century in the southern Italian city of Naples. This region is known for its almond production, and it is believed that these cookies were created as a way to use up excess almonds. The original version of these cookies, called "tricolori," consisted of only two layers: a yellow sponge cake and a red jam filling. It wasn't until the early 20th century when Italian immigrants brought this recipe to America that the third layer, the green almond paste, was added to represent the colors of the Italian flag.
A Symbol of Love and Unity
Italian rainbow cookies are more than just a delicious dessert; they also hold a significant meaning in Italian culture. The colors of the Italian flag, green, white, and red, represent hope, faith, and charity, respectively. These cookies, with their layers of colors, are a symbol of unity and togetherness, making them a popular choice for special occasions like weddings, Christmas, and other celebrations.
The Traditional Recipe
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs, separated
1 tsp almond extract
2 cups almond flour
1/4 tsp salt
Red and green food coloring
1/4 cup apricot jam
1/4 cup raspberry jam
1/4 cup seedless strawberry jam
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line three 8-inch square baking pans with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in the egg yolks, one at a time, and mix well after each addition. Then, mix in the almond extract.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
In another bowl, whisk together the almond flour and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the beaten egg whites.
Divide the batter into three equal portions and add a few drops of red food coloring to one, and green to another. Leave the third portion uncolored.
Pour each colored batter into its designated pan and spread evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let the layers cool completely, then stack them on top of each other with a layer of apricot jam between each layer.
Spread the raspberry jam on top, followed by the strawberry jam.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Drizzle over the top of the cookies in a zig-zag pattern.
Refrigerate for 1 hour to set the chocolate, then cut into squares and serve.
Bring a Touch of Italy Into Your Home
With its rich history and symbolic meaning, Italian rainbow cookies are more than just a dessert; they are a representation of Italian culture and tradition. By following this traditional recipe, you can bring a little piece of Italy into your home and share the love and unity these cookies represent with your family and friends. So why not give this recipe a try and see for yourself just how delicious and meaningful these cookies can be?
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