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Italian Rainbow Cookies

These vibrant Italian Rainbow Cookies, layered with almond-flavored cake and jam, are a nostalgic treat that brings joy to any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz Almond paste (about half a can) Essence of rich flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (1 stick, softened) Provides moist, tender crumb.
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar Balances flavors.
  • 4 large Eggs Brings structure to the cookie layers.
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour Ensures delightful texture.
  • 1/4 tsp Baking powder Provides lift for a tender bite.
  • 1/2 cup Jam (apricot or raspberry) Adds sweetness and moisture.
  • few drops Red food coloring For vibrant color.
  • few drops Green food coloring To create colorful layers.
  • few drops Yellow food coloring Adds cheerful touch.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Almond extract (optional) Deepens almond flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp Salt Balances sweetness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8×8-inch pans with butter or line them with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine almond paste, softened butter, and granulated sugar. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Finally, blend in the flour, baking powder, and salt until everything is combined.
  4. Divide the dough into three equal portions. Add red food coloring to one, green to another, and yellow to the last one. Mix until vibrant.
Baking
  1. Spread each colored dough evenly in its prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes until slightly golden.
  2. Once baked, cool the layers on a flat surface.
Assembly
  1. Spread a layer of jam on the yellow layer, then stack the green and red layers on top, applying jam in between.
  2. Wrap the layers tightly in plastic wrap and chill for several hours or overnight.
Serving
  1. After chilling, remove the wrap and trim the edges. Slice into bite-sized squares.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze portions wrapped in plastic.