Almond Jumbles
Delicious Almond Jumbles Recipe - Your New Favorite Cookie
Introduction
Almond Jumbles are a delightful and traditional treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of almonds with the sweet, buttery texture of classic cookies. This recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to create these beloved cookies, perfect for tea time, special occasions, or as a comforting snack. With their unique blend of ingredients and the charming simplicity of their preparation, Almond Jumbles have stood the test of time as a favorite among cookie enthusiasts.
History
The history of Almond Jumbles traces back to European culinary traditions, where almonds have been a staple ingredient in baking for centuries. Originally, "jumbles" referred to a variety of cookies or biscuits that were often shaped into knots or intricate designs. Over time, the recipe evolved, and the almond variety became popular for its delightful flavor and texture. These cookies have been cherished through generations, making their way into family recipe books and continuing to be a beloved treat around the world.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- To prepare this almond jumbles recipe, start by combining 2 oz (57 g) of butter with half a pound of flour. Then, add 2 tablespoonfuls of sifted sugar, a little lemon juice, and 2 oz (57 g) of sweet almonds along with 4 or 5 bitter almonds. These almonds should be blanched and beaten to a paste with the white of an egg.
- Thoroughly mix the ingredients together, roll out the dough to a thin consistency, and cut it into small round cakes. Place the cakes on well-oiled tins and bake them in a preheated oven.
- Bake for approximately ten minutes.
Variations
- For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the dough. You can also dip the baked cookies in melted chocolate or drizzle them with a simple icing for an extra touch of sweetness.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure your Almond Jumbles turn out perfectly, consider these tips and tricks:
- Use room temperature butter for easier mixing.
- Blanching the almonds before grinding them into a paste will enhance their flavor and make them easier to incorporate into the dough.
- Adding a touch of lemon juice not only adds a subtle brightness to the cookies but also helps in balancing the sweetness.
- Roll the dough evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Keep a close eye on the cookies while baking, as they can quickly go from perfectly golden to overdone.
Serving Suggestions
Almond Jumbles are best served with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a lovely accompaniment to a fruit salad or a scoop of ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.
Cooking Techniques
The key technique in making Almond Jumbles is to ensure the dough is mixed thoroughly and rolled evenly. This ensures that the cookies bake uniformly and have a consistent texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free flour can be used in place of regular flour, and a dairy-free butter substitute can replace the butter to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
Make Ahead Tips
The dough for Almond Jumbles can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to a month. Simply thaw (if frozen) and roll out when ready to bake.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Almond Jumbles on a vintage plate or a tiered cake stand for a touch of elegance. Garnishing the plate with almond slices or dusting the cookies with powdered sugar can also add to their visual appeal.
Pairing Recommendations
Almond Jumbles pair wonderfully with a light, floral tea such as Earl Grey or Jasmine. For a more decadent pairing, consider a dessert wine or a cup of espresso.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store Almond Jumbles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To refresh, simply warm them in a low oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
A serving of Almond Jumbles contains approximately 120 calories. This makes them a relatively light option for those who are mindful of their calorie intake but still wish to enjoy a sweet treat.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Almond Jumbles contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the flour and sugar used in the recipe. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, so these cookies can provide a quick boost when needed.
Fats
Almond Jumbles are relatively low in fats, with each serving containing about 7 grams. The fats primarily come from the butter and almonds, which contribute to the cookies' rich flavor and tender texture. These fats include a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Almond Jumbles provides around 3 grams of protein, mainly from the almonds. Almonds are a good source of plant-based protein, making these cookies a slightly more nutritious option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
Vitamins and minerals
Almond Jumbles are a source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium, thanks to the almonds. These nutrients contribute to overall health and well-being, making these cookies a more nutritious choice than many other sweet treats.
Alergens
The primary allergens in Almond Jumbles are almonds (tree nuts) and gluten (from flour). Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this recipe or seek suitable substitutions.
Summary
Overall, Almond Jumbles offer a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with a variety of vitamins and minerals. While they are a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation, they also provide some nutritional benefits, making them a delightful choice for a balanced diet.
Summary
Almond Jumbles are a timeless and versatile cookie that offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. With their rich history and simple preparation, they are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Whether enjoyed as a sweet snack or as part of a more elaborate dessert, Almond Jumbles are a delicious treat that embodies the joy of baking and sharing food with loved ones.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Almond Jumbles. It was a sunny afternoon in the early 1950s when I was visiting my dear friend Mary in her quaint little cottage by the countryside. Mary was known for her delicious baked treats, and she always had a new recipe up her sleeve to share with me.
As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on tea and catching up on the latest gossip, Mary suddenly got up and rummaged through her old recipe box. She pulled out a tattered piece of paper and handed it to me with a mischievous smile. "I think you'll love these Almond Jumbles," she said, her eyes twinkling with excitement.
The recipe was written in faded ink, with scribbled notes in the margins. It called for simple ingredients like almonds, sugar, butter, and flour, but the method seemed a bit complicated. Mary assured me that it was worth the effort and that the end result would be heavenly.
I decided to give it a try, and Mary guided me through each step of the process. We ground the almonds into a fine powder, creamed the butter and sugar together, and carefully folded in the flour. The dough was sticky and crumbly, but Mary showed me how to shape it into small balls and press a whole almond on top of each one.
As we popped the Almond Jumbles into the oven, the sweet aroma filled the kitchen, making our mouths water in anticipation. When they emerged golden brown and crunchy, we couldn't wait to dig in. The nutty flavor of the almonds, combined with the buttery richness of the cookies, was like nothing I had ever tasted before.
From that day on, Almond Jumbles became a staple in my baking repertoire. I made them for family gatherings, church potlucks, and even just as a special treat for myself on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Each time I baked a batch, I thought of Mary and the joy of discovering a new recipe together.
Over the years, I tinkered with the original recipe, adding a pinch of cinnamon here, a splash of almond extract there. I found that a touch of lemon zest brightened up the flavor, while a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top gave the cookies a delicate sweetness.
I shared the recipe with my own daughters, passing down the tradition of baking Almond Jumbles from generation to generation. They, in turn, made the cookies for their children, creating a delicious link to our family's past.
As I sit here now, surrounded by memories of those baking days with Mary, I can't help but smile. The simple joy of discovering a new recipe, of sharing it with loved ones, and of creating something delicious from scratch is a gift that I will always cherish.
So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a new recipe to try, I urge you to seek out the thrill of stumbling upon something special. Who knows? You might just discover your own version of Almond Jumbles – a recipe that will bring joy and sweetness to your life for years to come.
Categories
| Almond Recipes | Cookie Recipes |