These almond cookies are buttery, soft, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Made with almond flour, almond extract, and topped with sliced almonds, they’re a gluten-free, grain-free delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re crafting a Christmas cookie platter, celebrating the Chinese New Year, or simply craving a nutty treat, these cookies are a must-try.
A Nod to Tradition
This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Chinese almond cookies, which are often baked to symbolize good luck and fortune. Shaped to resemble coins, they’re a staple during festive occasions like the Chinese New Year. My version retains their symbolic essence while adding a soft, chewy texture and a modern gluten-free twist.
Why You’ll Love These Almond Cookies
- Unparalleled Flavor: These cookies are buttery, nutty, and perfectly sweet.
- Naturally Gluten-Free: Made with almond flour, they’re also grain-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs.
- Simple Ingredients: Just 8 pantry staples are all you need to whip up a batch.
- Quick and Easy: No chilling is required, and the cookies bake in under 20 minutes.
- Versatile: They’re great for gifting, sharing, or enjoying with a warm beverage.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Cane Sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness while contributing to the cookie’s light texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich, creamy base. Ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the ingredients together.
- Almond Extract: Infuses the cookies with a deep, nutty aroma and flavor.
- Almond Flour: The star ingredient, giving these cookies their signature texture and flavor. Use finely ground, blanched almond flour for best results.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Baking Powder: Helps the cookies achieve a slightly airy texture.
- Almonds: Whole or sliced almonds for a decorative and crunchy topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Cane Sugar: Replace with coconut sugar or maple sugar for a natural sweetener. Note that this may slightly darken the cookies.
- Butter: Use vegan butter or softened coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Egg: Swap with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a plant-based alternative.
- Almond Extract: If unavailable, vanilla extract can be used, though it will yield a milder almond flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cream together softened butter and cane sugar in a mixing bowl using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy. Add the egg and almond extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a cohesive dough forms.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough into 12 evenly sized balls. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring some space between each cookie. Lightly flatten each ball and press a sliced or whole almond into the center.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Perfect Almond Cookies
- Use Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming and a smoother dough.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a tender texture.
- Watch Your Oven: Almond flour browns quickly, so check your cookies at the 15-minute mark to prevent over-baking.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm, spiced twist.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Let your cookies cool completely before storing. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Refrigeration: Extend their shelf life to 1 week by storing in the fridge.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before serving.
Why Almond Cookies Are a Must-Bake
These cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a symbol of good fortune, a nod to tradition, and a crowd-pleasing treat. Their delightful almond flavor and soft, buttery texture make them the perfect addition to any occasion. Pair them with a cup of tea, serve them at holiday gatherings, or gift them to loved ones. No matter how you enjoy them, they’re bound to impress.
Now that you’ve got the recipe, it’s time to bake! Let these almond cookies become a cherished part of your baking repertoire.