Recipe Description
Chinese Almond Cookies are a delightful treat known for their crispy texture and almond flavor. These cookies are popular during Chinese New Year and other festive occasions. With a perfect balance of sweetness and a crunchy almond topping, they make for an ideal snack or dessert.
Serving Details
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: Chinese
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup ground almonds
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Whole almonds, for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, vegetable oil, and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the beaten egg and almond extract, mixing until combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, ground almonds, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
- Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Press a whole almond into the center of each cookie.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Yes, you can substitute almonds with other nuts like cashews or walnuts for a different flavor. However, almonds give the authentic taste to this recipe.
Can I make these cookies without almond extract?
Yes, you can skip the almond extract, but it enhances the almond flavor. You can substitute it with vanilla extract for a different taste.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
These cookies stay fresh for up to one week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and thaw before serving.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before baking. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
