Saxon-style Almond Cookies

Ingredients

In adapting the original Russian Kurabiiki to Saxon cuisine, we have incorporated some key differences. Firstly, we have replaced the traditional Russian spices with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, which are commonly used in Saxon baking. Additionally, we have substituted some of the all-purpose flour with almond flour to enhance the nutty flavor. Lastly, we have added a touch of honey to provide a subtle sweetness that complements the almond taste. We alse have the original recipe for Kurabiiki, so you can check it out.

• 200g (1 ¾ cups) all-purpose flour 200g (1 ¾ cups) all-purpose flour
• 100g (1 cup) almond flour 100g (1 cup) almond flour
• 150g (1 ¼ cups) ground almonds 150g (1 ¼ cups) ground almonds
• 150g (¾ cup) unsalted butter, softened 150g (¾ cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 100g (½ cup) granulated sugar 100g (½ cup) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Sliced almonds, for garnish Sliced almonds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat: 10g (4g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 14g (6g sugars)
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, almond flour, ground almonds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, honey, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a log. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Remove the dough logs from the refrigerator and slice into ½-inch thick rounds.
7. 7.
   Place the cookie rounds on the prepared baking sheet and garnish each with a sliced almond.
8. 8.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. 9.
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to use ground almonds and sliced almonds for this recipe. If you can't find ground almonds, you can grind whole almonds in a food processor until finely ground.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced almond flavor, you can add a few drops of almond extract to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can sprinkle some powdered sugar on top of the cookies after they have cooled.
• To achieve a more delicate texture, make sure not to overmix the dough.

Serving advice

Serve these Saxon-style Almond Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also make a lovely addition to a dessert platter or as a homemade gift.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Saxon-style Almond Cookies on a decorative platter, allowing their golden-brown color and almond garnish to shine. Consider placing a few whole almonds or almond branches around the cookies for an elegant touch.