Vanilla Almond Cookies

Ingredients

• 200g (1 ¾ cups) all-purpose flour 200g (1 ¾ cups) all-purpose flour
• 200g (1 ¾ cups) ground almonds 200g (1 ¾ cups) ground almonds
• 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 egg 1 egg
• ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 11g, 6g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. 2.
   Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until well combined.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, and salt.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. 5.
   Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped nozzle.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
7. 7.
   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into wreaths or pretzel-like shapes.
9. 9.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.
10. 10.
    Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

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

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve the perfect texture, make sure the butter is softened but not melted.
• If you prefer a stronger almond flavor, you can add a few drops of almond extract in addition to the vanilla extract.
• Dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
• These cookies make a wonderful gift during the holiday season.

Serving advice

Serve these Vanilla Almond Cookies alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They are also perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet addition to a cookie platter.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Vanilla Almond Cookies on a decorative platter, allowing their intricate shapes to shine. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Consider adding a sprig of fresh mint or a few edible flowers for a pop of color.