Chinese Almond Cookies

Ingredients

Chinese Almond Cookies have been adapted from the Danish Småkager to suit the flavors and traditions of Chinese religious cuisines. While the original Danish version may include ingredients like cinnamon or cardamom, the Chinese adaptation focuses on the nutty flavor of almonds. Additionally, the Chinese version often incorporates whole almonds on top of each cookie, symbolizing good fortune. We alse have the original recipe for Småkager, so you can check it out.

• 1 1/2 cups (180g) almond flour 1 1/2 cups (180g) almond flour
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg 1 egg
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• Whole almonds, for topping Whole almonds, for topping

Nutrition

• Calories: 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat: 9g (3g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 9g (6g sugars)
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the almond extract, salt, and egg to the butter mixture. Mix well.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the almond flour and all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. 5.
   Roll the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. 6.
   Gently press a whole almond onto the top of each cookie.
7. 7.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown.
8. 8.
   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 smoother texture in the cookies.
• Butter — Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the cookies.
• Almond extract — Use high-quality almond extract to enhance the almond flavor in the cookies.

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 a little granulated sugar on top of each cookie before baking.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and crispness.

Serving advice

Serve Chinese Almond Cookies alongside a cup of hot tea or as a sweet treat during religious ceremonies and festive occasions.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Chinese Almond Cookies on a decorative platter, highlighting their golden color and the whole almonds on top. Consider adding a small note explaining the symbolism of the whole almonds for good fortune.