Butter Cookies with Almonds
Butter Cookies with Almonds Recipe
Introduction
Butter cookies with almonds are a classic and delicious treat that are perfect for any occasion. These cookies are rich, buttery, and have a delightful crunch from the whole almonds on top. They are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them!
History
Butter cookies with almonds have been a popular treat for centuries, with origins dating back to Europe. These cookies were often served at special occasions and celebrations, and were a favorite among royalty and nobility. Today, they are enjoyed by people all over the world for their rich flavor and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
- 4 sticks of softened butter
- 1.25 cups of sugar
- 4 cups of flour
- 6 dozen (3 oz or 85 g) whole blanched almonds
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 325°. Line two large cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter at medium-high speed until creamy.
- Slowly add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour just until blended.
- Roll the dough into one-inch balls and arrange them two inches apart on the prepared cookie sheets.
- Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand and press an almond in the center of each cookie.
- Bake the cookies for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are pale golden around the edges only (do not brown).
- Allow the cookies to cool on the cookie sheets for five minutes.
Variations
- You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm and spicy flavor.
- For a chocolate twist, you can dip the cookies in melted chocolate after baking.
- You can also experiment with different types of nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, in place of the almonds.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use room temperature butter for the best results in this recipe.
- Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies.
- If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can sprinkle a little extra sugar on top before baking.
- For a more pronounced almond flavor, you can also add a drop of almond extract to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
Butter cookies with almonds are perfect for serving with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter or cookie tray.
Cooking Techniques
The key to making perfect butter cookies with almonds is to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This will ensure that the cookies are tender and have a delicate texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have whole blanched almonds, you can use sliced almonds or chopped almonds instead. You can also substitute almond extract for the whole almonds for a more pronounced almond flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the dough for butter cookies with almonds ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make the cookies even more delicious.
Presentation Ideas
Butter cookies with almonds look beautiful when arranged on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar. You can also package them in a decorative tin or box for a lovely gift.
Pairing Recommendations
Butter cookies with almonds pair well with a variety of beverages, such as tea, coffee, or milk. They also go well with fruit compote or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store butter cookies with almonds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a 325° oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of butter cookies with almonds contains approximately 150 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of butter cookies with almonds contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of butter cookies with almonds contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of butter cookies with almonds contains approximately 2 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Butter cookies with almonds are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (butter) and tree nuts (almonds).
Summary
Butter cookies with almonds are a delicious treat that are relatively low in calories and provide a small amount of protein and healthy fats. However, they should be enjoyed in moderation due to their high sugar and fat content.
Summary
Butter cookies with almonds are a classic and delicious treat that are perfect for any occasion. With their rich buttery flavor and satisfying crunch, they are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Enjoy these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee, or package them up for a lovely gift.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, creating delicious dishes and treats that always left us wanting more. One day, as I sat by her side watching her mix and measure ingredients with precision, she pulled out a worn and tattered recipe card from her collection. It was for Butter Cookies with Almonds, a recipe she had acquired from a dear friend many years ago.
As she read through the ingredients and instructions, my mouth watered in anticipation. The thought of delicate buttery cookies studded with crunchy almonds was enough to make my stomach rumble. I begged her to teach me how to make them, and with a twinkle in her eye, she agreed.
We started by creaming together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. The sweet aroma of butter filled the air as we added in a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. Next came the flour, sifted and mixed in gently until a soft dough formed. My grandmother showed me how to roll the dough into small balls and press a whole almond into the center of each one. As she placed them on a baking sheet and popped them into the oven, I could hardly wait for them to bake.
After a few minutes, the kitchen was filled with the delicious scent of butter and almonds toasting in the oven. My grandmother and I watched through the glass door as the cookies turned a golden brown around the edges. When they were done, we let them cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely. I couldn't resist sneaking a taste of one while it was still warm, and it melted in my mouth, leaving behind a buttery richness and a satisfying crunch from the almonds.
From that moment on, Butter Cookies with Almonds became a staple in our household. My grandmother would make them for special occasions and holidays, and I would often join her in the kitchen to help. We would share stories and laughter as we rolled out the dough and pressed in the almonds, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
Over the years, I have made these cookies countless times, each batch bringing back happy memories of my time spent in the kitchen with my grandmother. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of making Butter Cookies with Almonds to the next generation. And as I sit here now, with a fresh batch of cookies cooling on the counter, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of this recipe and the joy it has brought to my life.
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time will always hold a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of the bond between generations, the love shared through food, and the simple pleasure of a warm, buttery cookie with a hint of almond. And as I take a bite of one of these delicious treats, I know that my grandmother's spirit lives on in every crumb.