As a mom and someone who loves spending time in the kitchen, I can tell you that baking cookies has always had a special place in my heart. There’s just something magical about the scent of fresh cookies wafting through the house that brings everyone together, don’t you think? So, when it comes to delicious treats, these Almond Meltaway Cookies are at the top of my list. They’re easy to whip up, and in about 30 minutes, you have a warm batch of cookies that will surely impress your family and friends.
Now, let me tell you a little bit about how this recipe came into my life. I stumbled upon it years ago when a friend shared it at a potluck. You know, the kind of gathering where everyone brings their best dish? Well, let’s just say, I couldn’t keep my hands off those melt-in-your-mouth cookies! After that, they quickly became a staple in my own kitchen. They have the perfect balance of buttery goodness and almond flavor, which my kids absolutely love. In fact, I often catch them sneaking a cookie or two before dinner, but who can blame them?
Another great thing about these cookies is how they melt in your mouth like a soft cloud. They’re not overly sweet, which allows the rich almond flavor to shine through. They’re perfect as a light dessert after dinner or as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee. Plus, they’re super easy to adapt to whatever you have on hand, which is a lifesaver on busy days! I’ve tried making these with my kids, and it’s such a joy to see them get involved in the process. They love rolling the dough and drizzling the icing on top. It really makes for some fun family bonding time!
If you want to make your own batch of these tasty Almond Meltaway Cookies, grab your apron and let’s get started! I promise they’ll become a new favorite in your household too. They also make great gifts! Whether you’re taking them to a friend’s house, bringing them to a family gathering, or just having a cozy day at home, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Let’s dive into the recipe and get our baking hats on!
How to Make Almond Meltaway Cookies
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Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons almond extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (or water)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get a baking sheet ready by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will help your cookies bake evenly and make cleanup a breeze!
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together thoroughly, and then set this mixture aside for later. It’s important to mix it well to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed.
- Now, grab your mixer and beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once that’s achieved, include the egg and almond extract, blending until it’s fully incorporated. Slowly mix in the flour mixture, adding it in small amounts to make sure everything combines nicely.
- Once your dough is ready, roll heaping tablespoons of it into small balls. Flatten each one gently between your palms or with the bottom of a glass so they form round disks, and then place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Pop those cookies into the oven and bake for about 8 minutes. They won’t look overly brown, but trust me, they’re perfectly done! Let them sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes after taking them out, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Now, it’s time to think about that delightful icing! In a separate bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, and the remaining teaspoon of almond extract until it’s smooth. If you find the icing too thick, just add a splash more milk to get that perfect drizzle consistency.
- Once your cookies are cool, go ahead and drizzle the icing over each cookie. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to let the icing set. If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely, but you never know), store them in the fridge. Just let them warm up a bit before serving, and they’ll still be just as tasty.
Storing Suggestion
For best results, store your Almond Meltaway Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them, but be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying. They may also be frozen for up to three months, which is perfect for preparing ahead of time!
Cooking Tips
When making these cookies, ensure your butter is adequately softened to achieve a smooth mix. You can substitute half of the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option, or use a vegan egg replacement if you’d prefer a vegan version. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or some chopped nuts can bring an extra layer of flavor to these delicious cookies!
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are lovely all on their own, but they can be enhanced by serving them with a side of fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat, or serve them at parties alongside a variety of other cookies for a delightful dessert table!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re in need of alternatives, instead of all-purpose flour, you can use gluten-free flour blend if you want a gluten-free treat. You can also swap the granulated sugar with coconut sugar or another alternative sweetener to reduce the glycemic index. Almond extract can be replaced with vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
Seasonal Variations
Throughout the year, you can make these cookies seasonal by adding in some chocolate chips during the fall or holiday spices like nutmeg and clove in winter for a festive flair. During spring, you can fold in some crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a pop of color and flavor that celebrates the season!
Allergen Information
This recipe contains common allergens like gluten and dairy. For those allergic to gluten, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. To make this dairy-free, substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Always check labels for specific allergens if you’re preparing these cookies for others.
FAQ
Can I freeze Almond Meltaway Cookies?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze the Almond Meltaway Cookies! Just ensure they are completely cool and place them in a single layer in an airtight container. You can also layer parchment paper between each layer of cookies. They should stay fresh for up to three months, and you can let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Are these cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet?
They can be made suitable for a gluten-free diet by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum or add it separately to achieve the right texture. Additionally, check for any dairy ingredients if serving someone with lactose intolerance.
How can I make these cookies more almond-flavored?
If you’re a fan of almond, you can enhance the flavor by adding more almond extract to the dough. Just a teaspoon more can make a noticeable difference. Alternatively, you could also incorporate finely chopped almonds into the dough for added texture and a burst of flavor.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough seems too sticky to handle, don’t worry. You can add a little more flour, about a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a consistent, workable texture. You might also chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to roll and shape.
How long do these cookies last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these Almond Meltaway Cookies will stay fresh for about five days. If you refrigerate them, they may last a bit longer but be sure to allow them to come back to room temperature before serving them to enjoy their full flavor.
Can I make these cookies in advance for an event?
Absolutely! These cookies are perfect for making in advance. You can bake them up to a week ahead of your event and store them in a cool, dry place. Drizzle the icing on the day of the event for the best appearance and taste, ensuring they are fresh and welcoming on the dessert table!
Almond Meltaway Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons almond extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk or water
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silpat. Set it aside for now.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside for later.
- In your stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s nice and fluffy. Add in the egg and almond extract, mixing well until everything is blended. Gradually add in the flour mixture, about half a cup at a time, until it’s fully mixed in.
- Take about a tablespoon of the dough and roll it into a small ball. Then, flatten it with your hands or the bottom of a cup to form a disk. Place these on your prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the cookies for 8 minutes. They might not look golden, but trust me, they’re done! Let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the icing, whisk together the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, and the almond extract in a small bowl until it’s smooth. If it feels too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Using a spoon, drizzle the icing on top of each cookie and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it sets. Store any leftovers in the fridge, and let them warm up a bit before serving.
