Introduction
Indulging in freshly baked cookies is a delightful experience, and this recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness and nutty flavor. With the use of almond flour, these cookies have a unique texture and taste that set them apart from classic cookie recipes. Topped with a smooth almond glaze, they are both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Cookies:
– ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, softened and sliced
– 1¼ cups powdered sugar
– 3 large eggs, room temperature
– 1½ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
– 1½ cups almond flour, spooned and leveled
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 2 teaspoons cornstarch
Glaze:
– 3 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 4 tablespoons milk, divided
– Nonpareils (optional garnish)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
10-12 minutes
Total Time
30-32 minutes
Yield
Approximately 24 cookies
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking pans with parchment paper or lightly spray with baking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Butter and Sugar Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and creamy using a hand or stand mixer.
Step 3: Add Eggs
Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture and beat to combine. The mixture may appear lumpy at this stage.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and cornstarch until well combined.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a dough forms.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a 1½ tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop out dough and split each portion in half. Roll each half into a ball and place on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the tops are dry and slightly cracked.
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool completely before glazing.
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
To prepare the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, almond extract, and 3 tablespoons of milk until smooth.
Step 10: Adjust Glaze Consistency
Gradually add the remaining tablespoon of milk, a little at a time, until the glaze reaches a thick but dippable consistency. You may not need to use all of the milk.
Step 11: Dip Cookies in Glaze
Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the glaze, then place them on a drying rack.
Step 12: Add Nonpareils
If desired, sprinkle nonpareils over the glazed cookies.
Step 13: Set the Glaze
Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Butter Temperature
Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Note 2: Egg Temperature
Using eggs at room temperature helps the mixture combine better.
Note 3: Cookie Spacing
Leave enough space between the cookies on the baking sheet to allow for spreading during baking.
Note 4: Glaze Thickening
If the glaze becomes too thin, add more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is reached.
Cook techniques
Softening Butter
Using room temperature butter is crucial for achieving a light and creamy texture in your batter. If you’re short on time, you can cut the butter into smaller pieces or microwave it in short intervals to soften it, but avoid melting it.
Mixing Techniques
When combining the butter and powdered sugar, use a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually adding the eggs helps ensure an even consistency, but be careful not to overmix after adding the dry ingredients to keep the cookies tender.
Measuring Flour
For accurate measurements, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge. Avoid scooping directly from the bag, which can pack the flour and lead to dry cookies.
Shaping Cookies
Using a cookie scoop ensures that your cookies are uniform in size. Once scooped, divide each portion in half and roll them into balls for a nice round shape, which helps with even baking.
Baking Tips
Keep an eye on the cookies toward the end of the baking time. Look for golden brown edges and dry tops as indicators that they’re done. Avoid overbaking to ensure they remain soft inside.
Glazing Cookies
For a smooth glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and almond extract, gradually adding milk until the desired consistency is reached. Dip the cookies instead of pouring glaze over them for a more controlled application.
FAQ
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter, but consider adding a pinch of salt to the recipe to maintain flavor balance.
How can I make the cookies more almond-flavored?
You can increase the amount of almond extract in the glaze or add a small amount to the cookie dough itself for a stronger almond flavor.
Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze scooped cookie dough balls in an airtight container for up to three months. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
What can I use instead of almond flour?
If you need a substitute, you can use additional all-purpose flour, though the texture and flavor may differ. Ground oats or coconut flour are alternative options but will require adjustments in the moisture content.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the cookies will stay fresh for about 5-7 days. You can also refrigerate them to prolong freshness.
Conclusion
Creating these delightful cookies is a rewarding experience that combines the rich flavors of almond and the sweetness of glaze. The combination of almond flour and all-purpose flour gives a unique texture, while the glaze adds a delightful finish. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Chip Almond Cookies
Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a classic chocolate-chip twist.
Citrus Glazed Cookies
Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the cookie dough for a refreshing citrus flavor, and use citrus juice instead of milk in the glaze.
Nutty Fruit Cookies
Mix in dried fruit like cranberries or apricots along with chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Spiced Almond Cookies
Add warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for an aromatic touch.
Matcha Almond Cookies
Incorporate matcha powder into the dough for a vibrant green color and a subtle earthy flavor.
Peanut Butter Swirl Cookies
Add dollops of peanut butter into the cookie dough before baking for a deliciously nutty flavor.
Caramel Drizzle Cookies
Drizzle melted caramel over the glazed cookies for an indulgent treat.
