Almond Cookie Recipe

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Almond cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of almonds with a sweet, buttery base. These cookies are not only delicious but also have a fascinating history that traces back to various cultures around the world. Almonds have been cultivated for thousands of years, and their use in baking can be found in many traditional recipes, from Italian amaretti to Chinese almond cookies. This recipe will guide you through creating your own batch of almond cookies that are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea or a festive gathering.

Time

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup (120g) almond flour
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup (30g) sliced almonds (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, salt, and baking powder.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Gently press a few sliced almonds onto the top of each cookie for decoration.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Tips

For a more intense almond flavor, consider toasting the almond flour lightly before using it in the recipe.
If you prefer a chewier cookie, slightly underbake them and allow them to cool on the baking sheet.
Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, ensure that the almond flour is certified gluten-free.
Add chocolate chips or chunks for a delightful contrast to the almond flavor.
Incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced cookie.
Substitute half of the almond flour with coconut flour for a tropical twist.

Nutrition per Serving

kcal: 120
fat: 8g
saturates: 3g
carbs: 10g
sugars: 5g
fibre: 1g
protein: 3g
salt: 0.1g

Serving Suggestions

Almond cookies can be enjoyed on their own or paired with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions:

Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Present them on a decorative platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch.
For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Conclusion

Almond cookies are a versatile and delicious treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. With their rich flavor and delightful texture, they are sure to please anyone who tries them. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet allows for creativity and customization for more experienced bakers. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with variations, these almond cookies are bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked almond cookies filling your kitchen!

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