Soft, chewy Italian almond macaroons with a crackled top are irresistibly aromatic. These delicate mediterranean cookies are a family baking tradition.
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour and 1.25 cups powdered sugar until fully combined and lump-free.
In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer to whip egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form; do not overbeat.
Gently fold the whipped egg whites, almond extract, vanilla extract, and lemon zest into the dry ingredients until a thick, tacky dough forms.
Pinch off tablespoon-sized portions, roll into balls, coat each generously in powdered sugar for rolling, and arrange on baking sheet with 2-inch spacing.
Bake on the center rack for 20–22 minutes, rotating halfway through, until tops are crackled and edges are just golden. Do not overbake; cookies should remain soft inside.
Cool completely on the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack to set for best chewy texture.