There’s a special kind of warmth that fills the kitchen when holiday baking begins. As I carefully mix the ingredients for these Almond Paste Christmas Cookies, the sweet, nutty aroma dances through the air, nonchalantly inviting memories of cherished family gatherings. On bustling December evenings, when the chill seeps into our homes, this quick and easy recipe transforms simple moments into treasured traditions, one chewy cookie at a time.
What sets these cookies apart isn’t just their delightful texture—chewy and a bit crisp at the edges—but also their gluten-free nature, making them a perfect treat for everyone. With minimal effort required, you can whip up a batch that will disappear faster than you can say “cookie exchange.” So, whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply indulging in some self-care with a cup of tea, allow these little gems to bring a touch of the holiday spirit to your table. Grab your mixing bowl, and let’s create something deliciously memorable!
Why are Christmas Cookies with Almond so Special?
Irresistible Flavor: The almond paste delivers a rich, buttery taste that makes these cookies a holiday favorite.
Gluten-Free Delight: Enjoy these treats guilt-free; they cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Quick and Easy: Busy evenings are no problem—this simple recipe comes together in no time.
Perfectly Textured: The chewy center paired with slight crispness at the edges creates a delightful bite.
Festive Appeal: They not only taste great but also add a charming touch to your cookie platter.
Enduring Tradition: These cookies will become a cherished part of your holiday rituals, just like they are in many homes!
Christmas Cookies with Almond Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Almond Paste – Provides rich flavor and moisture; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and supports cookie structure for a delightful bite.
• Confectioners’ Sugar – Contributes additional sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
• Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the structure; you can substitute with regular flour, but the texture may vary.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
• Almond Flavoring – Intensifies the almond taste; can be replaced with vanilla extract if needed.
• Egg Whites – Provide binding; whisk and fold gently to maintain lightness in the dough.
• Almond Slices – Add a crunchy texture and beautiful decoration on top of the cookies.
How to Make Christmas Cookies with Almond
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Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly, achieving that perfect golden finish.
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Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent your cookies from sticking and make for easy cleanup afterward!
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Cream the Mixture: In a stand mixer, combine the almond paste, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until creamy and well-blended, ensuring a velvety batter.
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Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the gluten-free flour, salt, almond flavoring, and egg whites. Mix gently until everything is just combined; overmixing may affect the cookie’s light texture.
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Form the Cookies: Use an ice cream scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each portion into a ball and then roll them in almond slices for a delightful crunch and finishing touch.
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Bake the Cookies: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 1.5 inches apart. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bottoms turn lightly golden brown.
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Cool and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving plate.
Optional: For a festive touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Christmas Cookies with Almond
• Use Fresh Almond Paste: Ensure your almond paste is fresh and firm for the best flavor and texture; stale paste can lead to dry cookies.
• Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when incorporating egg whites; overmixing may result in a denser cookie, instead of the desired light and chewy texture.
• Use Parchment Paper: Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy release and to prevent sticking; greasing can alter the cookie’s finish.
• Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be slightly golden around the edges while remaining soft in the center for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Storage Tips: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months, using parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative—add a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of chocolate for an extra festive touch to your almond cookies!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cookies with Almond
Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture and rich flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and place them in a well-sealed freezer bag.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen cookies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer them warm, reheat the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore their delightful texture.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Christmas Cookies with Almond are perfect for those looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prep the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix the ingredients, form the dough into balls, and refrigerate them. This not only helps enhance the flavors but also prevents the dough from spreading too much while baking. When you’re ready to bake, just take the chilled dough from the fridge, roll them in almond slices, and bake as directed. For longer storage, shape the cookie dough balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake when you’re in the mood for a warm, chewy treat! These make-ahead strategies ensure that your cookies are just as delightful, saving you precious time while still delivering that festive taste!
Christmas Cookies with Almond Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own magic on this delightful recipe! Each option adds a unique twist that can elevate your holiday baking experience.
- Vanilla Swap: Replace almond flavoring with pure vanilla extract for a classic taste twist.
- Nutty Alternative: Use hazelnuts or pecans instead of almond slices for rolling, adding an exciting crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle over cooled cookies for a rich, delightful contrast to the almond flavor.
- Zesty Kick: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrusy flavor that brightens each bite.
- Spicy Twist: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to create a warm, cozy spice profile perfect for winter holidays.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use vegan almond paste and aquafaba (chickpea water) instead of egg whites for a dairy-free version.
- Different Flours: Experiment with almond flour or coconut flour as a substitute for gluten-free flour for a whole new texture.
- Fruity Addition: Fold in some dried cranberries or chopped apricots to the dough for a pop of color and sweetness.
Each variation offers a chance to make these cookies truly your own, creating cherished memories with every batch. Happy baking!
What to Serve with Christmas Cookies with Almond?
Indulging in these festive treats is always better when paired with the right accompaniments to elevate your holiday experience.
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Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy, a cup of hot cocoa beautifully enhances the sweet almond flavor, creating a cozy pairing perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Fresh Fruit Platter: The juicy sweetness of seasonal fruits like oranges or pomegranates adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the chewy texture of the cookies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Soft and creamy, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm cookie’s center, making each bite a delightful explosion of flavor.
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Nutty Frangipane Tart: If you’re feeling adventurous, the nutty sweetness of a frangipane tart echoes the almond notes in the cookies, offering a layered taste experience.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai tea complement the cookies perfectly, creating an aromatic blend that warms both the heart and the soul.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tangy, homemade cranberry sauce gives a bright flavor contrast, balancing the rich sweetness of the cookies on your holiday dessert table.
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Sparkling Cider: Celebrate with a glass of sparkling cider, its fizzy brightness enhances the cookie’s rich flavors, creating a festive atmosphere.
Let these pairings make your holiday celebrations even more special, adding delightful notes to each bite of those wonderful Christmas cookies.
Christmas Cookies with Almond Recipe FAQs
What type of almond paste should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely, using fresh almond paste is key! Look for a firm and moist almond paste in your local grocery store or specialty market. Check the expiration date to ensure it’s still fresh, as older paste can lead to dry, crumbly cookies.
How should I store my Christmas cookies with almond?
For optimal freshness, I recommend storing these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Make sure to place parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking together and losing their delightful chewy texture.
Can I freeze Christmas cookies with almond?
Yes, you certainly can! To freeze, layer the cookies with parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just remove the cookies from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
My cookies didn’t spread while baking. What did I do wrong?
Very common! If your cookies aren’t spreading, it’s likely due to overmixing the dough or not having the right consistency. Make sure to gently fold the egg whites in until just combined, and check that your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C). If the dough is too stiff, add a teaspoon of water to loosen it slightly before baking.
Can these cookies be enjoyed by people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, these cookies contain almond-based ingredients, making them unsuitable for those with almond or nut allergies. However, you could explore nut-free alternatives like using sunflower seed paste to create a similar texture and flavor without the allergens.
What is the best way to serve Christmas cookies with almond?
These cookies are perfect alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee during holiday gatherings. You could also arrange them on a festive platter, perhaps garnished with some extra almond slices or a dusting of confectioners’ sugar to elevate their visual appeal.
Delicious Christmas Cookies with Almond: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer, combine the almond paste, granulated sugar, and confectioners' sugar. Mix until creamy.
- Gradually add the gluten-free flour, salt, almond flavoring, and egg whites. Mix gently.
- Use an ice cream scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each portion into a ball and coat with almond slices.
- Place dough balls on the baking sheet, bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden brown.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before transferring to a serving plate.