The name for amaretti cookies comes from the Italian word "amaro," meaning "bitter." This is in reference to the bitter flavor of almonds or apricot kernels, which are traditionally used as the base of the cookies. The full name translates to "little bitter things," a name that feels ironic now, considering how delightfully sweet the cookies are.
There are many kinds of amaretti cookies, spanning soft, chewy, and beyond. The most popular type of amaretti, however, is beloved for its crisp and light texture. This is called the "Amaretti di Saronno," which is widely considered the original version. It's often described as the Italian version of a French macaron. When shopping for amaretti, the two main varieties are "secchi or morbidi"—"secchi" referring to the dry and crisp variety, and "morbidi" denoting the softer type of cookies.