Pin Delicate, buttery almond cookies with a hint of citrus zest, perfect for celebrating Hanukkah or Christmas. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are beautifully decorated for a festive touch.
I first made these almond cookies for our holiday table and everyone enjoyed the light texture and cheerful colors. They became a new favorite for both Hanukkah and Christmas celebrations in our home.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
- Almond flour: 1 cup (100 g)
- Baking powder: 1/2 tsp
- Fine sea salt: 1/4 tsp
- Unsalted butter (softened): 3/4 cup (170 g)
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup (150 g)
- Large egg: 1
- Pure vanilla extract: 2 tsp
- Grated lemon zest: 1 tsp
- Sliced almonds: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Powdered sugar: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Lemon juice: 2 tbsp
- Festive colored sugar or sprinkles: blue, silver, white for Hanukkah; red, green, gold for Christmas
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- Beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Beat until just combined.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated.
- Shape Cookies:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Decorate with Almonds:
- Flatten each ball slightly and press sliced almonds on top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are just golden. Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Glaze and Decorate:
- Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle glaze over cooled cookies and decorate with festive colored sugar or sprinkles.
- Set and Store:
- Allow glaze to set before serving or storing.
Pin My family loves gathering in the kitchen to help decorate these cookies with colorful sprinkles and almond slices. It's a joyful tradition that brings everyone together during the holidays.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheets, parchment paper, wire rack, small whisk or spoon for glaze
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), Eggs, Milk (butter), Tree Nuts (almonds). Check all ingredients for cross-contamination or hidden allergens if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Per cookie: Calories: 110, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 12 g, Protein: 2 g
Pin With their festive colors and almond flavor, these cookies make a delightful addition to your holiday celebrations. Bake a batch and spread the joy!
Recipe Q&A
- → What gives these cookies their delicate texture?
Almond flour and softened butter create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie with a rich crumb.
- → Can I omit nuts for allergies?
Yes, substitute sunflower seed flour for almond flour and skip sliced almonds for a nut-free version.
- → How do I decorate for different holidays?
Use blue, silver, and white for Hanukkah; red, green, and gold for Christmas to match the festive mood.
- → What is the best way to store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Can these cookies be made ahead?
Yes, prepare in advance and keep stored; the glaze and decorations add a fresh, festive touch before serving.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these are vegetarian-friendly as they contain no meat or gelatin-based ingredients.