Chinese Almond Cookie
Delightful Chinese Almond Cookies feature a crisp exterior with a subtle almond flavor, accented by a signature red dot. Perfect for festive occasions and almond lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut shortening into dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add beaten egg and almond extract to the mixture and combine.
- Knead the dough until soft and pliable.
- Form the dough into small balls and flatten them with your hand.
- Use a chopstick to make a red dot in the center of each cookie with red food coloring.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring. If you're out of almond extract, vanilla extract can be a good substitute, though it will change the flavor profile slightly. To enhance the nuttiness, consider adding finely chopped almonds or almond meal to the dough. Make sure to cut the shortening into the dry ingredients thoroughly for the best crumb texture.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can be served alongside green tea or milk for a classic pairing. They also make a festive addition to a cookie platter during celebrations like Chinese New Year. For a unique twist, pair them with Chinese Egg Foo Young for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To enjoy them warm, briefly reheat in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds, making sure not to overheat to avoid losing their delicate texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Almond Cookie contains roughly 94 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 butter instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute butter for shortening in this recipe. However, the texture may be slightly different, as butter can create a crispier cookie. If using butter, ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easier incorporation into the dough.
How can I make these cookies more colorful?
To add more color, you can incorporate food coloring into the dough itself or sprinkle colored sugar on top before baking. Additionally, using colored sprinkles can create a festive look, especially for celebrations or parties.
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before shaping and baking to ensure it’s easier to work with.
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).