Almond Rusks
Almond rusks are crunchy, buttery biscuits infused with almond flavor, perfect for snacking or tea time, offering a delightful combination of nuttiness and sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and sugar.
- Add beaten eggs.
- Blend in almond extract.
- Sift dry ingredients (flour, soda, salt).
- Add alternately with sour cream and ground almonds to the creamed mixture.
- Divide dough into 6 parts.
- Shape each into 15-inch long rolls.
- Place 3 rolls on each of two ungreased cookie sheets, allowing space between as they spread.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Remove rolls from pans and cut diagonally into 3/4-inch slices.
- Place slices, cut side down, on a cookie sheet.
- Return to oven and toast for 10 to 15 minutes until brown.
- Turn the rusks over and toast the other side.
- Store in a tightly covered container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening. If you want a nut-free version, substitute ground almonds with an equal amount of finely chopped oats. Ensure that you sift the dry ingredients well to avoid clumps, leading to a lighter texture in the rusks. If you're short on time, you can skip toasting the slices after baking, although toasting adds a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Almond rusks are perfect for dipping into coffee or tea, making them an ideal snack for afternoon gatherings. They can also be enjoyed with a spread of butter or cream cheese for a more indulgent treat. Pair them with a sweet dessert like Irresistable Brownies for a delightful dessert platter or enjoy them alongside a fruit salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the almond rusks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply place the rusks in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This will help restore their crispness without making them too hard.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almond Rusks contains roughly 1228 calories, with 24g protein, 198g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), iron (48% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 a different type of nut instead of almonds?
Yes, you can substitute ground almonds with other nuts like hazelnuts or walnuts. Just ensure you grind them finely to achieve a similar texture. Each nut will impart its unique flavor, so choose one that complements your taste preferences.
How can I tell when the rusks are properly toasted?
The rusks should be golden brown and crisp on both sides when properly toasted. Keep an eye on them during the final baking stage to prevent burning, and feel free to adjust the toasting time based on your oven's performance.
Can I freeze the almond rusks for later use?
Absolutely! After baking and cooling, place the rusks in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and toast them for the best texture.
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).