Ethiopian Almond Cookies

Ingredients

While the original Greek Kourabiedes are typically made with butter and powdered sugar, the Ethiopian Almond Cookies are adapted to Ethiopian cuisine by incorporating traditional Ethiopian spices like cinnamon and cardamom. Additionally, honey is used as a sweetener instead of powdered sugar, giving these cookies a unique flavor profile that reflects the Ethiopian culinary heritage. We alse have the original recipe for Kourabiedes, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) almond flour 2 cups (240g) almond flour
• 1/2 cup (120ml) honey 1/2 cup (120ml) honey
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (30g) sliced almonds, for garnish 1/4 cup (30g) sliced almonds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 9g, 0.7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 9g, 6g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, honey, vegetable oil, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix well until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Take small portions of the dough and shape them into small balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
4. 4.
   Gently press a few sliced almonds onto the top of each cookie for garnish.
5. 5.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies turn golden brown.
6. 6.
   Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond flour — Ensure that the almond flour is finely ground for a smooth texture in the cookies.
• Honey — Use a good quality honey to enhance the flavor of the cookies.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cloves to the cookie dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can drizzle a little honey over the cooled cookies before serving.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Serving advice

Serve these Ethiopian Almond Cookies as a delightful treat alongside a cup of Ethiopian coffee or tea. They are perfect for festive occasions, afternoon snacks, or as a sweet ending to an Ethiopian-inspired meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter and sprinkle some powdered cinnamon on top for an elegant touch. You can also place a few whole almonds around the cookies for a visually appealing presentation.