Chinese Almond Cookies

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever wondered how to bring a little bit of Chinatown into your own kitchen? Chinese Almond Cookies Are a classic treat that are surprisingly easy to make at home.

These cookies are more than just food; they are like a warm hug with a nutty flavor.

Brief Overview

These cookies originated in China and are often enjoyed during celebrations like the Lunar New Year. Making these Homemade Cookies is medium difficulty and takes about an hour, including chilling time.

This recipe yields around 24 cookies, perfect for sharing or hiding away for yourself.

Main Benefits

Almonds are full of healthy fats and vitamin E. Chinese Almond Cookies are a delicious way to enjoy a little treat while getting some nutrients.

These Lunar New Year Cookies are ideal for sharing with friends and family during the holidays or enjoying with a cup of tea.

They're special because they’re melt-in-your mouth good.

Crumbly Cookies: Your New Favorite Treat

The beauty of this Easy Cookie Recipe is how simple the ingredients are. We are talking everyday stuff. Seriously. This Almond Flour Cookies recipe uses just a few basic ingredients, but the result is pure magic.

The combination of almond and butter creates this super flavour that will have you coming back for more!

For the dough, you will need softened butter, granulated sugar, an egg, almond extract, baking soda, salt, all-purpose flour, and almond flour.

For the topping, grab an egg yolk, milk or water, and some blanched almonds. Getting the right ingredients for this Chinese Almond Cookies Recipe is important.

Baking Your Almond Cookies

Ready to transform your kitchen into a Chinatown bakery? First, you'll need a stand mixer or electric hand mixer, baking sheets, parchment paper, a small bowl, a pastry brush, and measuring cups and spoons.

Make sure you’ve got everything before you begin. I remember the first time I made them, I didn’t have parchment paper.

Let me tell you, scraping those cookies off the sheet was not fun! These Asian Cookies will become a new favourite Dessert Recipe .

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Show on the Road

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to nail these Chinese Almond Cookies . Chinese Almond Cookies Are a delightful treat, but even the easiest cookie recipe needs the right kit.

Don't worry, you probably have most of this stuff already! It is not an easy chinese cookie recipe , but it is worth the effort.

Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show

Here’s a list of what you'll need to bake 24 of these little beauties:

• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened. Seriously, get the good stuff!
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar.
• 1 large egg. Free range if you can!
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) almond extract. This is key for that almond flavor. Don't skip it!
• ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) baking soda.
• ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) salt.
• 2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour. Plain flour works best, innit?
• ½ cup (57g) almond flour . Almond Flour Cookies are just fabulous with almond flour.

For the egg wash and topping:

• 1 large egg yolk.
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) milk or water.
• 24 whole blanched almonds. They look so pretty on top!

The butter needs to be softened. Take it out an hour before you start. Quality butter makes a world of difference.

Seasoning Notes: That Extra Oomph

Want to take these up a notch?

• Almond extract is essential. Don't even think about skipping it.
• A tiny pinch of salt balances the sweetness. It's magic.
• Some folks add a dash of orange zest. Gives it a zing!

No almond extract? Vanilla extract works in a pinch. But it won’t be the same Lunar New Year Cookies , ya know?

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid

You don’t need fancy gadgets for homemade cookies .

• Baking sheets. Gotta have 'em!
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats. For easy cleanup!
• Mixing bowls.
• A mixer is helpful, but your arms work too!
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• Pastry brush.
• Wire rack for cooling.

Don’t have a pastry brush? Use a clean finger. Improvise, my friend! These Crumbly Cookies are worth it, whatever you do.

I remember when I first tried baking with almond flour , I thought you absolutely HAD to have a stand mixer, but honestly, a good wooden spoon and some elbow grease works just as well.

Seriously though, These Chinese Almond Cookies Recipe won't disappoint you.

Let's Get Cracking: Baking Chinese Almond Cookies

Honestly, who can resist a good cookie? And Chinese Almond Cookies Are a real treat. Lunar New Year Cookies , or anytime cookies, really! This Easy Cookie Recipe is going to become your new go-to.

Homemade Cookies are just the best, aren't they?

I love these things. They're buttery, crumbly, and have that delicate almond flavour. Reminds me of my grandma's baking... always a good thing!

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

• Essential mise en place : Get all your ingredients measured out. This will save you a massive headache later.
• Time saving organization tips : Soften your butter ahead of time, seriously. You'll thank me. Also, weigh out your flour before you start anything.
• Safety reminders: Just watch those oven mitts, yeah? Don't want any burnt fingers!

step-by-step Process: Cookie Magic

1. Cream together the softened 1 cup (227g) butter and ¾ cup (150g) sugar until fluffy. Don't overdo it.
2. Beat in 1 large egg and 1 tsp almond extract.
3. Whisk together ¼ tsp baking soda , ¼ tsp salt , 2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour , and ½ cup (57g) almond flour in a separate bowl.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
5. Wrap the dough and chill for at least 30 minutes.
6. Preheat your oven to 325° F ( 160° C) . Line your baking sheets with parchment.
7. Roll the dough into 1 inch balls and place on the sheets.
8. Brush with egg wash (whisk 1 large egg yolk and 1 tbsp milk/water ) and top with a blanched almond. Bake for 12- 15 minutes , until lightly golden.

Pro Tips for Crumbly Cookies

• Expert Technique : Use a stand mixer if you have one. It makes life so much easier.
• Common Mistake : Overmixing the dough! This will make tough cookies. Trust me, I've been there!
• make-ahead Option : You can make the dough a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. This is perfect for when you're busy! These Chinese Almond Cookies Recipe are a lovely way to finish your evening, or celebrate the Lunar New Year . These Homemade Cookies are a nice change from the usual Almond Flour Cookies . And they are great Chinese New Year Treats . The best part is you have complete control over the Almond Cookie Variations . This easy recipe is also great for Baking with Almond Flour . Finally, a chance for Chinese Bakery Style Cookies at home.

Recipe Notes for Your Best Ever Chinese Almond Cookies

So, you're about to bake some scrummy Chinese Almond Cookies . Great choice! Here are a few extra things to bear in mind.

I've learned these bits and bobs from my own baking adventures. Let's get cracking, shall we? I hope you enjoy my Chinese Almond Cookies Recipe .

Serving Suggestions: Treat Yo'Self!

Okay, picture this: golden Crumbly Cookies , fresh from the oven. Bliss! For presentation, a simple plate does the job.

Dust with a tiny bit of icing sugar if you're feeling fancy. Or how about stacking them high on a cake stand?

They are especially awesome with a cup of jasmine tea. Alternatively, a chilled glass of almond milk does the trick, too.

For something extra special, try them with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. Now that's what I call a proper Dessert Recipe !

Storage Tips: Keep 'em Fresh

Honestly, these Homemade Cookies never last long in my house. If you need to store them, pop them into an airtight container.

They’ll be fine at room temperature for about 3-4 days. Keep them out of direct sunlight though, yeah?

Want to keep them longer? Freezing is an option. Place the cooled cookies in a freezer safe bag or container. They'll happily stay for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to eat them, just thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes . You could also gently warm them in the oven at 175° F for a few minutes.

Variations: Make It Your Own

Fancy a twist? How about adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough? It gives them a lovely zing.

For a gluten-free version, you can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Remember that the texture might change a tiny bit.

Or, why not get seasonal? In autumn, you could add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg. Chinese Almond Cookies Are a treat all year round.

They are especially great as Lunar New Year Cookies .

Nutrition Basics: A Little Bit of What You Fancy

Each cookie has about 120 calories. There’s also roughly 2g of protein, 8g of fat, 11g of carbohydrates, and 6g of sugar.

Of course, this is just an estimate. Almonds are known for their health benefits, such as heart healthy fats. Just remember, moderation is key.

This Easy Cookie Recipe is worth every calorie.

Right then! I hope these tips help you on your baking journey. Don't be afraid to experiment, have fun and remember that baking is all about the enjoyment! Go on, give it a go.

You'll be surprised how easy it is to create these Asian Cookies at home. Soon you'll have your own delicious Almond Flour Cookies .

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my Chinese Almond Cookies Are a little dry and crumbly? Is that normal?

Yes, that's absolutely normal! Chinese Almond Cookies Are a supposed to have a slightly dry and crumbly texture, almost like a shortbread. It's what makes them so delightful with a cup of tea. If they are too dry, it might be because you overmixed the dough or baked them for too long. Aim for lightly golden edges.

Can I make Chinese Almond Cookies Are a ahead of time? How should I store them?

You sure can! These cookies are perfect for making ahead. Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll stay fresh for up to a week, just like your favourite biscuits in a tin.

You can also freeze the unbaked dough for up to a month; just thaw it in the fridge before rolling and baking.

My almonds keep falling off the cookies! What am I doing wrong?

Aha! You're not alone; this is a common issue. Make sure you're pressing the almonds firmly into the dough after you've brushed the cookies with the egg wash the egg wash acts like glue. Another tip is to use slightly damp hands when shaping the dough, which helps the almond stick better.

Think of it like making sure your stamp sticks to the envelope, a little bit of moisture helps.

Can I use different types of nuts in my Chinese Almond Cookies Are a?

Absolutely! While almonds are traditional, feel free to experiment. Pecans, walnuts, or even hazelnuts would work beautifully. Just make sure they are blanched. You could even use a mix of chopped nuts for a more textured cookie, and that can be a great way to switch up the cookie for a different occasion.

I'm watching my sugar intake. Can I reduce the sugar in these Chinese Almond Cookies Are a?

You can certainly try reducing the sugar, but be aware that it might affect the texture of the cookies. Start by reducing it by about 1/4 cup and see how it goes. You could also consider using a sugar substitute suitable for baking, but again, this might change the final result.

It's a bit like tweaking a classic cocktail recipe - you need to consider the balance of flavors!

Are these cookies gluten-free, and how can I make a gluten-free version?

The traditional recipe isn't gluten-free because it uses all-purpose flour. To make these cookies gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Double check that your almond flour is also certified gluten-free to avoid cross contamination.

You might need to experiment a bit with the liquid ratio, as gluten-free flours can absorb differently, so take it easy and be prepared to adjust your process.