Soft Almond Pillow Cookies

A Buttery, Nutty Delight

Introduction

If you love soft, buttery cookies with a delicious almond filling, these Soft Almond Pillow Cookies will quickly become your new favorite treat. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies feature a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth dough surrounding a sweet and nutty almond paste center. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special gathering, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies will not disappoint.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

This recipe is ideal for almond lovers, home bakers looking for a unique twist on traditional cookies, and anyone who appreciates a balance of buttery richness and nutty sweetness. These cookies are also great for entertaining guests, as they look elegant and taste divine. If you’re a fan of Italian or European-style almond pastries, these cookies will remind you of those classic flavors.

Why These Cookies Are Special

  • Soft and Buttery: The dough is tender and rich, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
  • Almond Lover’s Dream: The filling is made with real almond paste, intensifying the nutty goodness.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for afternoon tea, festive gatherings, or as a homemade gift.
  • Easy to Make: While they look sophisticated, they are quite simple to prepare.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup butter, at room temperature
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp almond extract
  • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

  • 8 oz almond paste
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • 2 tsp almond extract

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Electric mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Plastic wrap
  • Cookie scoop or ice cream scoop
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter with sugar using an electric mixer for about 2 minutes until creamy.
  2. Add the egg yolk, milk, and almond extract, mixing until fully combined.
  3. Gradually add the flour a few tablespoons at a time, mixing until the dough comes together in a chunky consistency.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.

Step 2: Make the Almond Filling

  1. In another mixing bowl, combine the almond paste, sugar, egg yolk, milk, and almond extract.
  2. Mix well until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Scoop out a ball of dough using a cookie scoop.
  3. Roll the dough into a ball, then flatten it slightly.
  4. Place a teaspoon to a tablespoon of almond filling in the center, then form the dough around it until completely covered.
  5. Place the formed cookies on the baking sheet and gently flatten them.

Step 4: Bake and Finish

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
  2. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a cooling rack.
  3. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Recipe Tips and Variations

Tips for Success

  • Chilling the Dough: Don’t skip this step! Chilling the dough ensures the cookies hold their shape while baking.
  • Working with Almond Paste: If your almond paste is too firm, microwave it for 5-10 seconds to soften it before mixing.
  • Measuring Flour: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid adding too much, which can make the dough dry.

Variations

  • Chocolate-Dipped Almond Pillow Cookies: Once cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
  • Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing flavor contrast.
  • Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle slivered almonds on top before baking for added texture.

Storage and Shelf Life

Storing Leftovers

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 10 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Food and Drink Pairings

  • Pair with Coffee: These cookies taste amazing with a strong espresso or a frothy cappuccino.
  • Serve with Tea: A warm cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea complements the almond flavor beautifully.
  • Dessert Platter: Serve with fresh berries, dark chocolate, or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Almond Flour Instead of Almond Paste?

No, almond flour and almond paste are very different. Almond paste provides the rich, sweet filling that makes these cookies unique.

What Can I Use Instead of Almond Extract?

If you don’t have almond extract, vanilla extract can be used, but the almond flavor will be milder.

Can I Make These Cookies Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance and assemble and bake them the next day.

Why Did My Cookies Spread Too Much?

If your cookies spread too much, your butter may have been too soft, or the dough wasn’t chilled long enough. Be sure to chill for at least an hour before baking.

Final Thoughts

Soft Almond Pillow Cookies are a must-try for any baking enthusiast. Their delicate, buttery texture and luscious almond filling make them irresistible. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or simply to enjoy with your afternoon coffee, they are sure to impress.

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