Almond cookies are a type of cookie made with almond flour or ground almonds, which gives them a distinctive nutty flavor and a slightly crumbly texture. Almond cookies are a popular treat around the world, particularly in countries like China, where they are often served during the Lunar New Year.
Almond cookies can be made in a variety of ways, but they typically include ingredients like almond flour or ground almonds, sugar, butter, and eggs. Some recipes may also include other ingredients like vanilla extract, baking powder, or cinnamon.
The dough for almond cookies is typically rolled into balls or flattened disks, and then decorated with an almond in the center of the cookie. The cookies are baked until they are lightly golden brown and crispy around the edges.
Almond cookies are a delicious and relatively healthy treat, as almonds are a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They are also a good source of vitamin E
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (optional)
Recipe:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the almond extract and salt to the butter and sugar mixture and mix well.
- Add the almond flour to the mixture and mix until it forms a crumbly texture.
- Add the egg yolk and continue to mix until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Take out the chilled dough and roll it into 1-inch balls.
- Flatten the balls slightly with your fingers or the bottom of a glass.
- Place the sliced almonds (if using) on top of the flattened cookies and press lightly.
- Place the cookies onto a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Tips:
- To make these cookies gluten-free, make sure to use certified gluten-free almond flour.
- If you don't have almond flour, you can make your own by grinding blanched almonds in a food processor until they reach a fine texture.
- For a richer flavor, you can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
- For a crispier texture, you can bake the cookies for a few extra minutes until they are golden brown all over.
Benefits:
Almond cookies offer several health benefits due to the high nutritional content of almonds. Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium. Here are some of the benefits of eating almonds:
- Lower cholesterol levels: Almonds have been shown to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Improve heart health: Almonds are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help improve blood lipid levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Aid in weight management: Almonds are a good source of protein and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, and may help with weight management.
- Lower blood sugar levels: Almonds have a low glycemic index, which means they don't cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels after eating. This can be beneficial for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.
- Reduce inflammation: Almonds contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to several chronic diseases.
Overall, almond cookies are a delicious and nutritious treat that offer both great taste and health benefits. They are easy to make and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert, making them a great addition to any recipe collection.