Chinese Almond Cookies
Chinese Almond Cookies are delicate, buttery treats with a subtle almond flavor and a satisfying crunch from whole almonds. Perfect for festive occasions or as an elegant snack, they appeal to those who enjoy lightly sweet, nutty cookies with a crisp texture and aromatic almond notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Reserve 36 almonds; finely chop or grind the remaining almonds.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Thoroughly cream the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Stir in the ground almonds, almond extract, and vodka or water.
- Form the dough into 36 small balls.
- Place the dough balls on a greased cookie sheet.
- Press an almond into the center of each ball.
- Bake in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 20 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
When making Chinese Almond Cookies, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar. If you don’t have almond extract, vanilla extract can be a suitable substitute, though the flavor will differ. For a nuttier taste, consider using toasted almonds. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with almond flour.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can also be served alongside tea or coffee for a comforting snack. They pair beautifully with Seafood Stir-Fry for a complete meal experience. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a platter with other Chinese recipes during holidays or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover almond cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, you can freeze them. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Almond Cookies contains roughly 18 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 blanched almonds instead of whole almonds?
Yes, blanched almonds can be used in place of whole almonds. They will provide a smoother texture and a milder flavor in the cookies. Just ensure to chop or grind them finely as instructed in the recipe.
What can I use instead of vodka or water in the recipe?
If you prefer not to use vodka, you can substitute it with an equal amount of milk or even almond milk for added flavor. This will also help to moisten the dough without altering the taste significantly.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
To make vegan Chinese Almond Cookies, replace butter with a plant-based butter alternative and ensure the sugar used is labeled vegan. Additionally, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture to bind the ingredients together, maintaining the cookie's 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).