Almond Cookies

Almond cookies are a delightful treat that everyone seems to love! They pack a wonderful nutty flavor and come with a lovely chewy texture that will have you craving more after your first bite. Picture yourself in your kitchen, the oven warming up, while the intoxicating scent of almonds fills the air. Doesn’t that sound inviting? Making almond cookies is not just about satisfying that sweet tooth; it’s about sharing moments with family and friends. These cookies look stunning with their sprinkle of powdered sugar and sliced almonds on top, making them perfect for any occasion—you can impress guests at a gathering or treat yourself to a delightful snack. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and bake some yummy almond cookies together!

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Why This Recipe Works

This almond cookie recipe is crafted for incredible flavor and optimal texture. The inclusion of ground almonds adds a unique nuttiness while ensuring the cookies remain chewy in the center. Plus, the frangipane filling provides a delightful surprise, reminiscent of classic almond pastries. Each bite is truly a moment of indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Almond Cookies

These almond cookies are great for any occasion. Whether you’re trying to impress guests at a gathering or simply satisfying cravings, the combination of chewiness and nutty flavor will keep you coming back for more. Topped with sliced almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar, they not only taste incredible but also look stunning!

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp (42 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/3 cup (66 g) granulated white sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp (40 g) ground almonds
• 1/3 cup (42 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• Pinch of salt
• 1 3/4 cups (219 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (165 g) light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp almond extract
• 1/2 cup (54 g) ground almonds
• 1/2 cup (50 g) sliced almonds, for topping
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Preparing the Frangipane

Whisk Together Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Whisk until smooth and well blended, making this the perfect base for your filling.

Fold in Dry Ingredients

Now, add the ground almonds, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt to your wet mixture. Gently fold until fully incorporated, then set this sweet mixture aside—trust me, it’s going to be worth it!

Making the Almond Cookies

Preheat the Oven

Let’s start your baking adventure! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside as we get your wet ingredients ready.

Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on high speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy. You’ll want it to look airy!

Mix in Egg Yolks and Extracts

Next, add the two egg yolks, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture. Beat on medium speed until pale and fluffy, scraping down the sides of the bowl when needed. This is where the magic starts!

Blend in Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in your combined dry ingredients and the ground almonds to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed just until everything is incorporated. Avoid overmixing; we want those cookies to remain chewy!

Scoop and Shape the Cookies

Grab a large cookie scoop to portion out the dough into 18 pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, and create a slight indent in each ball with a tablespoon. Spoon in 1/2 tablespoon of frangipane filling and flatten slightly. Don’t forget to top each cookie with sliced almonds for that extra touch!

Bake to Perfection

Now, place 6 cookies on each baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-13 minutes, or until they turn lightly golden brown. Your kitchen will smell incredible!

Shape and Cool the Cookies

Right after baking, use a large cookie cutter to gently shape the cookies while they’re still warm. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once they cool, dust with powdered sugar for that perfect finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

These almond cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them an excellent afternoon treat. They’re also a delightful addition to dessert platters at gatherings, adding an air of elegance to any spread.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming.
• Don’t skip the cookie scooping and shaping—it enhances their presentation.
• If you want to add a unique twist, try experimenting with different extracts!

Variations

• Add white chocolate chips for an extra sweet twist.
• Substitute some ground almonds with coconut for a tropical flavor.
• Incorporate spices like cinnamon or cardamom for even more depth.

Storage Tips

Store your almond cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to three months.

Pairing Ideas

These cookies taste fantastic with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy them alongside fresh berries for a balanced dessert that satisfies your taste buds.

FAQs

Can I use almond flour instead of ground almonds?

Absolutely! Almond flour works well, though it may result in a slightly different texture.

How do I achieve a chewy texture?

Be careful not to overmix the dough after adding the flour mixture, as overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

Can I add more flavors?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate orange zest or lemon zest for a citrusy twist.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be a light golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.

Almond cookies bring a taste of elegance to your baking collection. With a chewy center, nutty richness, and subtle sweetness, these treats will please any palate. Perfect for celebrations or casual snacking, they also allow for creative variations to highlight seasonal flavors or personal preferences. Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later, almond cookies promise a delightful experience in every bite.

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