Amaretti, meaning "little" and "bitter" in Italian, describes both the size and flavor of these bite-sized, almond treats. But don't let the "bitter" part deter you; these crunchy cookies, made from almonds, almond paste or ground apricot kernels, deliver the perfect balance of sweet and spice, with only the barest trace of bitterness.

While I'll try my hand with these straightforward amaretti almond cookies or perhaps these softer, chewier variations, I'll also make sure to buy a box of the renowned Lazzaroni Amaretti di Saronno to put out, if only for the pretty wrappers.