There’s nothing quite like the delicate, buttery goodness of a soft almond sugar cookie. These cookies are rich, slightly chewy, and have the perfect balance of almond flavor without being overpowering. Whether you’re making these for a holiday gathering, a casual treat, or simply because you love cookies, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep handy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – Simple steps and basic ingredients make these cookies beginner-friendly.
- Perfectly soft and chewy – A touch of cornstarch ensures these cookies have the ideal texture.
- Bursting with almond flavor – A mix of almond extract and almond flour gives these cookies a deep, nutty taste.
- Customizable – You can add a personal twist by incorporating chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even a hint of citrus zest.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Cookie Dough:
- ¼ cup almond flour
- 1 & ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 & ½ tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 & ¼ teaspoon almond extract
Almond Icing:
- ⅔ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds for topping
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Spoon or spatula for icing
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This helps create that signature soft texture.
2. Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined. The almond extract enhances the nutty flavor, making these cookies irresistible.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
3. Shape and Bake
Scoop about ¼ cup of cookie dough for each cookie, rolling them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for about 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will look slightly underbaked in the center, but they will firm up as they cool.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
4. Make the Almond Icing
While the cookies cool, prepare the icing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until a thick glaze forms.
Spoon a small amount of icing onto each cooled cookie and gently spread it to create an even layer. Sprinkle sliced almonds on top for an elegant finish.
Allow the icing to set completely before serving.
Tips and Variations
- For an extra almond boost: Add finely chopped almonds to the dough for a crunchier texture.
- Make them gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Want a citrus twist? Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing contrast.
- Chocolate lovers: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cookies for a decadent touch.
How to Store Leftovers
These cookies stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate them for up to 10 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cookies (before or after icing) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.
Best Food and Drink Pairings
Pair these cookies with:
- A warm cup of almond milk latte for a comforting treat.
- Chai tea to complement the almond and spice flavors.
- Vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Fresh berries for a balance of sweetness and tartness.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes! You can swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed. For a nuttier taste, try replacing some of the flour with more almond flour.
What if I don’t have almond extract?
Almond extract gives these cookies their signature flavor, but you can substitute it with vanilla extract or a bit of maple syrup for a different but still delicious taste.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze the dough balls and bake them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Why are my cookies too hard?
Overbaking is the main culprit. Bake just until the edges turn golden, and remember that cookies continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This recipe doubles beautifully. Just ensure you don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as cookies need space to spread properly.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Soft Almond Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday, a weekend baking session, or just a well-deserved treat. With their soft texture, delicious almond flavor, and beautiful glaze, they’re sure to be a hit with friends and family.
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