Chinese Almond Cookies

Chinese almond cookies are a delightful treat that has captured the hearts of many dessert lovers across the globe. These cookies are not only easy to make but also offer a lovely combination of crunchy and nutty flavors with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies have a subtle almond essence that is truly irresistible. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these cookies will undoubtedly become a cherished tradition in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’re looking for a snack that pairs perfectly with tea, these Chinese almond cookies are a quintessential choice. They are a staple at Chinese bakeries and often served during the Lunar New Year, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. What sets this recipe apart is the beautiful almond flavor, the delicate texture, and the fact that they are so easy to whip up at home. The cookies are as easy to make as they are to devour, making them a fantastic addition to your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

To create these delightful cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cold butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 large eggs, slightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 36 almond slices (about 1/4 cup)
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water

How To Make Chinese Almond Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, almond flour, granulated sugar, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until they are well incorporated.

Step 3: Incorporate the Cold Butter

Add the cold butter cubes to the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The key here is to keep the butter cold as it adds to the flakiness of the cookies.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Almond Extract

Pour in the slightly beaten eggs and almond extract into the mixture. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together. It might seem crumbly at first, but keep mixing until a cohesive dough forms.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Once your dough is ready, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Place them a few inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand.

Step 6: Add Almond Slices

Press an almond slice onto the center of each cookie. This not only adds flavor but also gives the cookies a beautiful look.

Step 7: Prepare the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture lightly over the tops of the cookies for a glossy finish.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delightful treats with a cup of tea or as a sweet snack any time of the day!

Expert Tips

• For extra almond flavor, consider using almond meal instead of almond flour.
• Make sure your butter is cold; this will help achieve the desired texture in the cookies.
• Do not overmix the dough after adding the wet ingredients to keep the cookies tender.
• Experiment with different toppings, such as pistachio nuts or chocolate chips, for a unique twist.

Variations and Customizations

• Try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a hint of extra flavor.
• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
• Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor profile.
• For a sweeter cookie, increase the sugar slightly or dip them in powdered sugar after baking.

How to Store Leftovers

Once your almond cookies have completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week, which means you can enjoy them a little longer! If you want to keep them for a longer period, place them in the freezer. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

FAQ

Can I substitute the almond flour with more all-purpose flour?

While you can substitute almond flour with more all-purpose flour, it’s best to keep the balance between the two to maintain the unique flavor and texture of the cookies. If you want to skip almond flour entirely, consider adding a bit of almond extract to enhance the flavor.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

Your cookies are done when they have a light golden color on the edges and the centers appear set. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a little soft when you first take them out.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking the cookies.

What should I serve with these cookies?

These cookies pair perfectly with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They also make a charming addition to a dessert platter at gatherings or special occasions.

Conclusion

Chinese almond cookies are not just a delicious treat but also a wonderful link to tradition and celebration. With their crunchy texture and delightful almond flavor, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or simply enjoying them with a morning brew, these cookies will undoubtedly bring joy to any occasion. Happy baking, and enjoy every crumb of your homemade almond cookies!