As the first hints of spring fill the air, I find myself craving delightful treats that remind me of festive gatherings and shared moments. That’s when I remembered my grandmother’s cherished Chinese Almond Cookies, a recipe that effortlessly combines rich buttery flavors with the delicate crunch of almonds. I still picture her in the kitchen, her laughter echoing as she shaped each cookie with care, filling the space with an irresistible aroma.
What I love about these cookies is their incredible versatility — perfect as a light afternoon snack, a delightful addition to your dessert platter, or even a thoughtful gift in a pretty tin. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, requiring just a handful of pantry staples and a few moments of your time. Join me as we create these sweet morsels that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also hold a special place in my heart. Let’s bring a taste of tradition to your kitchen!
Why are Chinese Almond Cookies so beloved?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a handful of pantry staples, this recipe is as easy as it gets, making it suitable for bakers of all levels. Buttery richness shines through in every bite, complemented by the delightful crunch of almonds. Versatile and perfect for any occasion, these cookies can serve as a sweet snack, a party treat, or a heartfelt homemade gift. Quick to prepare, they fit effortlessly into your busy schedule, allowing you to indulge without the hassle. Nostalgic charm ties these cookies to special moments, ensuring that they bring warmth to your kitchen just like they did for mine.
Chinese Almond Cookies Ingredients
• Discover the simple yet flavorful components that create these delightful treats.
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – a great base for the cookies, giving them structure and chewiness.
- Sugar – balances the flavors with just the right amount of sweetness to complement the almonds.
- Almond flour – adds a rich, nutty flavor, making the cookie truly stand out.
- Baking soda – ensures the cookies rise perfectly while adding a light texture.
- Salt – enhances sweetness and balances the overall flavor profile.
- Unsalted butter – for a creamy richness that melts in your mouth; using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness.
- Egg – binds the ingredients together, providing moisture and richness.
- Almond extract – infuses a delightful almond flavor, amplifying the cookie’s character.
For Topping
- Raw whole almonds – these provide the signature crunch and add an elegant touch to each cookie.
- Egg yolk – used for the egg wash to achieve a beautifully golden finish.
- Sugar – a sprinkle enhances the sweet crust on the egg wash, creating a lovely glaze.
With these ingredients, you’ll create Chinese Almond Cookies that are sure to melt in your mouth and bring joy to every bite!
How to Make Chinese Almond Cookies
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Combine the flour mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, almond flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt until evenly mixed. Sift the mixture through a colander into a large bowl to ensure a light texture.
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Cut the butter: Dice the unsalted butter into 1/2” (1 cm) squares and add it to the flour mixture. Use a butter cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles moist cornmeal.
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Mix the dough: Add the egg and almond extract to the bowl, stirring until a smooth dough forms. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 1 hour, or place in the freezer for 20 minutes for quicker results.
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Preheat the oven: While the dough chills, set your oven to 350°F (176°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Prepare the egg wash: In a small bowl, mix together the egg yolk and sugar until well combined. Cover with plastic wrap if you’re not using it right away to keep it from drying out.
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Shape the cookies: Scoop about 2 teaspoons of dough (14 g) and roll it into a ball with your hands. Place them on the lined baking sheet, leaving about 2” (5 cm) of space between each.
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Press the almonds: Lightly flatten the dough balls with your finger, then gently press one raw almond into the center of each cookie, adding both crunch and beauty.
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Brush the cookies: Using a pastry brush, coat each cookie thoroughly with the egg wash to give them a golden, shiny finish.
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Bake the cookies: Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are golden brown, filling the kitchen with a sweet aroma.
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Cool the cookies: Once baked, carefully transfer the baking sheet to a counter and let the cookies cool for at least 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack or plate.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of decadence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chinese Almond Cookies?
The delightful crunch and buttery richness of these cookies create a perfect opportunity for pairing them with a variety of delicious accompaniments.
- Green Tea: This fragrant and slightly bitter drink beautifully balances the sweetness, making it an ideal pairing for the cookies.
- Fruit Compote: A tangy-sweet compote, like raspberry or apricot, adds a burst of flavor that complements the nutty almond taste.
- Cheese platter: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese provide a creamy contrast, enhancing the cookie’s nutty notes and creating a sophisticated snack.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip these cookies into warm chocolate for an indulgent treat; the melt-in-your-mouth texture pairs divinely with rich chocolate.
- Almond Milk: A glass of unsweetened almond milk enhances the almond flavor in the cookies, making for a delightful, nutty experience.
- Coffee: A smooth, rich brew offers a comforting warmth that pairs beautifully with the buttery sweetness of the cookies, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a heavenly dessert combination that’ll satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Sliced Apples: Fresh apple slices provide a crisp, refreshing contrast, balancing the cookie’s richness with a natural, healthy crunch.
- Bourbon: For an adult twist, a small glass of bourbon enhances the flavors and adds depth, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Expert Tips for Chinese Almond Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Ensuring the dough is chilled for at least an hour helps maintain the cookie shape while baking, avoiding spread and producing perfectly round cookies.
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Butter Temperature: Use cold unsalted butter for best results; room temperature butter can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking.
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Egg Wash Technique: Apply the egg wash gently; too much can cause the cookies to become soggy. A light brush ensures a beautifully glazed finish without compromising texture.
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Crunchy Almonds: Lightly toast the almonds beforehand for added flavor and a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall taste of the Chinese Almond Cookies.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; overbaking can lead to dryness. Aim for golden edges and a tender center for the best results.
Chinese Almond Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookies and make them truly your own!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy the same lovely texture without the gluten.
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Nut-Free: Replace almond flour with sunflower seed flour or oats for a nut-free alternative; the cookies still hold their charm!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an indulgent twist that adds sweetness.
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Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the almonds beautifully.
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Coconut: Incorporate shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flair; it adds a chewy texture and a hint of sweetness.
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Sugar-free: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia to make a sugar-free version that still satisfies your sweet cravings.
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Additional Toppings: Try swapping whole almonds for candied ginger or dried fruit to add a burst of flavor and a chewy texture.
Each variation holds the promise of deliciousness, inviting you to explore new flavors while cherishing the timeless appeal of Chinese Almond Cookies!
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Almond Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. Enjoy their delightful crunch by pairing them with a cup of tea or coffee!
Fridge: If you prefer to extend the shelf life, place the cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cookies individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: To revive the crispy texture, reheat cookies in a 350°F (176°C) oven for about 5 minutes after thawing, and they’ll taste freshly baked!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Chinese Almond Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to keep it fresh. To maintain the cookies’ delightful texture, avoid freezing the dough for too long, as it may affect the quality. If you prefer, you can also shape the cookies and place them on the baking sheet, then cover them and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just brush with the egg wash and bake, and you’ll have warm, delicious cookies ready to be savored with minimal effort!
Chinese Almond Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right almond flour for Chinese Almond Cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing almond flour, look for finely ground, blanched almond flour. This type is lighter and will yield a more delicate texture in your cookies. Be cautious of almond meal, which is coarser and may result in denser cookies.
What is the best way to store Chinese Almond Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. Just let them reach room temperature before diving in!
Can I freeze Chinese Almond Cookies?
Very! To freeze, wrap each cookie in plastic wrap individually, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay delightful for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. For a freshly baked taste, reheat them in a 350°F (176°C) oven for about 5 minutes after thawing.
What should I do if my dough feels too sticky?
No worries! If your dough seems too sticky, it might be due to the butter being overly soft. Chill the dough in the fridge for another 30 minutes to firm it up, which will make it easier to roll into balls. Alternatively, you can dust your hands with a bit of flour before handling the dough to prevent sticking.
Are these cookies safe for those with nut allergies?
Sadly, no. This recipe is not suitable for individuals with nut allergies, as it contains both almond flour and whole almonds. If you’re looking for a nut-free version, consider replacing almond flour with an equal amount of oat flour or a nut-free blend, while skipping the almonds on top.
How long do Chinese Almond Cookies last once baked?
Once baked, properly stored Chinese Almond Cookies will maintain their freshness for up to 3 days at room temperature, or up to a week in the fridge. For best taste and texture, enjoy them within this timeframe.
Chinese Almond Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, almond flour, baking soda, and salt until mixed.
- Dice the butter and add it to the flour mixture, blending until it resembles moist cornmeal.
- Stir in the egg and almond extract until a smooth dough forms, then chill for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the egg yolk and sugar in a bowl for the egg wash.
- Scoop about 2 teaspoons of dough, roll into a ball, and place on the baking sheet, spacing apart.
- Flatten the dough balls slightly and press an almond into the center of each.
- Brush each cookie with the egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until edges are golden brown.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.