Almond-kissed Cookies

Almond-kissed Cookies Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Almond-kissed Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of almonds with the sweet, irresistible taste of chocolate. This recipe offers a perfect balance of textures, from the crunchy almonds to the soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie base. Ideal for any occasion, these cookies are sure to impress with their elegant appearance and exquisite taste.

History

The Almond-kissed Cookies recipe is a modern twist on traditional almond cookies, which have been enjoyed for centuries across various cultures. Almonds have been a staple in baking due to their versatility and health benefits. The addition of chocolate kisses brings a contemporary flair to the recipe, making it a favorite among both young and old.

Ingredients

1 cup sliced almonds, divided
1.75 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 cup (2 sticks) softened butter or margarine
1.5 cups powdered sugar
1 egg
2 tsp freshly grated orange peel
0.5 tsp almond extract
1 cup Hershey's Mini Kisses semi-sweet or milk chocolate baking pieces

How to prepare

Grind 0.5 cup of almonds in a food processor or blender.
Stir together flour, ground almonds, and baking soda; set aside.
Beat butter and powdered sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
Add egg, orange peel, and almond extract; beat on low speed until blended.
Add the flour mixture; beat on low speed until blended.
Shape the dough into two logs, each about 1.5 inches in diameter.
Refrigerate the dough for about 15 minutes, if necessary, before shaping.
Wrap each roll separately in wax paper or plastic wrap; refrigerate until well chilled, for at least two hours.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Lightly grease the cookie sheets.
Slice the dough into 0.5 inch-thick slices.
Place the slices on the cookie sheet, about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 6 to 8 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
Immediately place 3 baking pieces and 3 almond slices on top of each cookie, pressing down lightly.
Remove from the cookie sheet and transfer to a wire rack.
Allow the cookies to cool completely.

Variations

Consider these variations to customize the recipe:
Use dark chocolate pieces for a richer flavor.
Substitute lemon peel for orange peel for a different citrus note.
Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a warm, spicy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Almond-kissed Cookies turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use high-quality almonds for the best flavor.

- Chill the dough thoroughly to prevent spreading during baking.

- Slice the dough evenly to ensure uniform baking.

- Watch the cookies closely as they bake, as the edges can brown quickly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of your favorite tea for a delightful snack. They also make a beautiful addition to any dessert table or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe involves techniques such as creaming butter and sugar for a light texture, chilling dough for easier handling, and baking at a precise temperature for perfect results.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based margarine.

- Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.

- Use almond flour in place of ground almonds for a finer texture.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, drizzle the cooled cookies with melted chocolate and sprinkle with finely chopped almonds.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these cookies with a robust coffee or a sweet dessert wine for a sophisticated dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. These cookies do not require reheating, but they can be briefly warmed in the oven if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each cookie contains approximately 150 calories, making them a relatively indulgent treat. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Almond-kissed Cookies contains approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar, providing energy for your day.

Fats

These cookies contain about 10 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being margarine and almonds. While almonds provide healthy monounsaturated fats, margarine contributes to the cookie's tender texture.

Proteins

Almond-kissed Cookies offer around 3 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the almonds and egg in the recipe. This moderate amount of protein makes them a satisfying snack.

Vitamins and minerals

Almonds are a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium, contributing to the nutritional value of these cookies. Additionally, the orange peel adds a hint of vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as nuts (almonds), dairy (margarine), eggs, and gluten (flour). Those with allergies or sensitivities should take caution.

Summary

Almond-kissed Cookies are a delicious treat with a moderate nutritional profile. They provide energy from carbohydrates, healthy fats from almonds, and a small amount of protein. Enjoy them as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Almond-kissed Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. With their rich almond and chocolate taste, they're sure to become a favorite. Follow the tips and variations provided to make this recipe your own, and enjoy the delicious results.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was during a trip to the bustling streets of Paris, where I stumbled upon a quaint little bakery tucked away in a hidden alleyway. The sweet aroma of freshly baked goods wafted through the air, drawing me in like a moth to a flame.

As I entered the bakery, my eyes were immediately drawn to a display case filled with an array of delectable treats. Among them were the most delicate and beautiful almond-kissed cookies I had ever seen. The golden brown edges glistened in the soft light, and the almond slices on top added a touch of elegance.

I couldn't resist ordering a few of these cookies to enjoy with my afternoon tea. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of pure bliss. The cookies were light and buttery, with a subtle hint of almond that danced on my taste buds. I savored each bite, letting the flavors linger on my palate.

I knew in that moment that I needed to learn how to make these cookies myself. I approached the baker and asked if he would be willing to share his recipe with me. To my surprise, he agreed and invited me into the kitchen to watch him work his magic.

The baker was a kind and patient man, with years of experience under his belt. He explained each step of the process in detail, from creaming the butter and sugar to folding in the almond flour and vanilla extract. I watched intently as he shaped the dough into perfect little rounds and topped them with a sprinkle of sliced almonds.

After the cookies had baked to golden perfection, the baker handed me a plateful to take home with me. I thanked him profusely and promised to cherish the recipe forever. As I walked back to my hotel room, I couldn't contain my excitement to recreate these cookies in my own kitchen.

Back home, I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work. The familiar scent of butter and sugar filled the air as I mixed the dough together, just as the baker had shown me. I carefully shaped each cookie and topped them with a generous helping of sliced almonds before popping them into the oven.

As they baked, my kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of almond and butter. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the cookies out of the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

The first bite was pure heaven. The cookies were just as light and buttery as I remembered, with the perfect touch of almond to elevate the flavor. I savored each bite, feeling a sense of accomplishment wash over me.

From that moment on, almond-kissed cookies became a staple in my baking repertoire. I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all marveled at how delicious they were. I even entered them in a local baking competition and won first place!

Every time I bake these cookies, I am reminded of that fateful day in Paris when I first discovered their magic. The recipe holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy that baking brings me and the memories of my culinary adventures around the world. And as I pass it down to future generations, I hope they too will find joy in creating these almond-kissed cookies from scratch, just as I did.