Almond Horns
Almond horns are delicate, nutty pastry horns with a crisp texture and sweet powdered sugar coating, perfect for festive occasions or elegant tea-time treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, sugar, and salt together in a bowl.
- Add butter and work into the flour mixture until well combined.
- Add the ground almonds and lemon extract to the mixture.
- Take small amounts of the mixture, roll in the palm of your hand until smooth, and shape into long horn-like forms.
- Place the shaped horns on a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until lightly golden.
- Let the horns cool completely on a wire rack.
- Roll the cooled horns in powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, consider using almond extract instead of lemon extract. If you don't have blanched almonds, you can blanch raw almonds yourself or use almond flour as a substitute. Be careful not to overwork the dough when mixing; this will keep the horns light and flaky. To enhance the sweetness, you can mix a little powdered sugar into the dough before shaping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Almond Horns alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. They can also be dusted with extra powdered sugar for presentation. For a vibrant contrast, consider pairing them with fresh fruit or a fruit-based dessert like Banana Berry Smoothie. They make excellent additions to holiday cookie platters as well.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Almond Horns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat briefly in a low oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almond Horns contains roughly 1189 calories, with 5g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% 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 different nuts instead of almonds?
Yes, you can substitute blanched almonds with finely ground walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will vary slightly, so choose a nut that you enjoy. Ensure that the nuts are finely ground for the best consistency in the dough.
What can I do if the dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is crumbly, it may need a little more moisture. Gradually add a teaspoon of cold water or an extra tablespoon of softened butter until the dough comes together. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the final product.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to make it easier to shape. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
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).