Simply Almond Shortbread
Buttery almond shortbread cookies with toasted sliced almonds, offering a delicate nutty flavor, perfect for teatime, holidays, or gifting to almond lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Place butter, sugar, 1 cup of sliced almonds, and almond extract in a bowl and beat with a mixer until blended.
- Add flour and beat until well blended.
- Spoon dough into an ungreased baking pan; press dough evenly into the pan.
- Sprinkle with remaining sliced almonds and press them lightly into the dough.
- Bake for about 25 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Immediately cut the shortbread into 15 squares using a butter knife.
- Cut each square diagonally to form triangles.
- Let cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the sliced almonds before adding them to the dough. If you don't have almond extract, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavor. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. If you prefer a crunchier texture, bake the shortbread a few minutes longer, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve almond shortbread with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. These cookies also pair beautifully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for added sweetness. For a special touch, serve alongside Meme'S Banana Nut Bread for a delicious dessert spread or brunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover almond shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the squares in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simply Almond Shortbread contains roughly 319 calories, with 3g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 30g 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 margarine instead of butter?
While butter provides the best flavor and texture for shortbread, margarine can be used as a substitute. However, it may alter the taste and make the cookies slightly less rich. Choose a high-quality margarine for the best results.
What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is crumbly, try adding a tablespoon of cold water or milk at a time, mixing until it comes together. Another option is to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before pressing it into the pan.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make your almond shortbread more festive, consider adding colorful sprinkles or drizzling melted chocolate on top after baking. You can also incorporate a hint of citrus zest, like lemon or orange, for a refreshing twist that complements the almond flavor.
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).