Almond Cookies
Almond cookies offer a delightful crunch with a subtle nutty flavor, perfect for almond lovers and those seeking a sweet, buttery treat. Crispy on the edges and tender inside, they pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, making them ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a special snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- In a blender, grind 1/2 cup of blanched almonds to a fine powder and add to the flour mixture.
- Cream sugar, shortening, almond extract, beaten egg, and water until well combined.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly.
- Form the dough into 1-inch balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Press one remaining almond into the center of each ball and flatten slightly with fingers.
- Brush each cookie with beaten egg.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until light brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider toasting the blanched almonds before grinding them. If you want a lighter texture, substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. You can also replace almond extract with vanilla extract for a different taste. Make sure to chill the dough for 30 minutes for easier handling.
Serving Suggestions
These almond cookies pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon snack. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a platter of Chocolate Chip Angel Cookies during gatherings or holidays. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover almond cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they are fresh and soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almond Cookies contains roughly 191 calories, with 4g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 581mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use almond flour instead of regular flour?
Yes, you can use almond flour, but keep in mind that it may change the texture and flavor of the cookies. Use a 1:1 ratio, but reduce the water slightly as almond flour is more absorbent. Experimenting with different flours can yield delicious results!
What can I substitute for shortening?
You can substitute shortening with an equal amount of butter or coconut oil. This will give the cookies a richer flavor. Just ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing, and keep in mind that using butter may result in a slightly flatter cookie.
Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and create a delightful contrast with the almond taste. Use about 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. Fold them into the dough after combining the wet and dry ingredients for a delicious twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).