Soft Almond Sugar Cookies

These Soft Almond Sugar Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion! Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just a cozy afternoon at home, these cookies are sure to impress. They boast a delightful almond flavor and a soft, chewy texture that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, they are easy to make with just nine simple ingredients and require only 10 minutes of prep time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, these cookies are perfect for any last-minute dessert needs.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich almond extract gives these cookies a unique taste that stands out.
• Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, parties, or just a sweet snack at home.
• Dairy-Free Option: Easily adaptable for those looking to avoid dairy products.
• Frosting Fun: Top them with buttercream and sliced almonds for an extra special touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Soft Almond Sugar Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer or Handheld Mixer: Essential for achieving a light and fluffy cookie dough.
• Mixing Bowls: Helps in keeping your ingredients organized and makes mixing easier.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success.
• Baking Sheets: Provides an even surface for baking; using parchment paper ensures easy cleanup.

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Ingredients

These soft almond sugar cookies are delicious and so easy to make! You’ll only need 9 ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup butter, softened (dairy free or regular)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons almond extract
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour (SEE NOTES)

For the Buttercream Frosting

• ¾ cup butter, softened (regular or dairy free)
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 1½ cup powdered sugar (icing/confectioners sugar) (plus more as needed)

How to Make Soft Almond Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the following:
1. 2½ cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 teaspoon baking powder
3. 1 teaspoon baking soda
4. ¾ teaspoon salt

Mix well until combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or in a large bowl using a handheld mixer:
1. Combine 1 cup softened butter with 1 cup granulated sugar.
2. Mix until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Egg and Almond Extract

Add:
1. 1 egg
2. 2 teaspoons almond extract

Mix until well combined and light in color.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture from Step 2 to the wet ingredients in batches. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out 1½ tablespoon-sized cookie dough balls onto your prepared baking sheets, ensuring there is about 4-5 inches between each ball.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake one tray at a time for about 8-11 minutes. The edges should be set while the middles remain soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make Buttercream Frosting

Once cooled completely:
In a medium bowl:
1. Combine ¾ cup softened butter,
2. ½ teaspoon almond extract,
3. ⅛ teaspoon salt,
4. And add in 1½ cup powdered sugar.

Feel free to adjust powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 9: Frost Your Cookies

Frost each cookie with the prepared buttercream frosting. For an added touch, decorate with sliced almonds!

Enjoy your delicious Soft Almond Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Soft Almond Sugar Cookies

These soft almond sugar cookies are perfect for various occasions, making them a delightful treat to share. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee or Espresso: The rich flavors of coffee pair beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies.
• Tea: A warm cup of Earl Grey or chamomile complements the almond notes perfectly.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy these cookies with a creamy hot chocolate for a cozy dessert experience.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Cheese Board: Add the cookies alongside cheeses and fruits for a balanced platter.
• Mixed Pastries: Serve them with croissants or danishes for an enticing variety.
• Fruit Salad: Combine with fresh fruits like berries and melon for a refreshing touch.

For Special Occasions

• Birthdays: Decorate with colorful icing and sprinkles for festive celebrations.
• Holidays: Use seasonal decorations or cookie cutters to create themed shapes for holidays.
• Weddings or Showers: Present these cookies as elegant favors adorned with ribbons.

How to Perfect Soft Almond Sugar Cookies

To ensure your soft almond sugar cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and tender.
• Chill the Dough (if needed): If it’s too warm, chilling the dough can help maintain cookie shape while baking.
• Watch Baking Time Carefully: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be set around the edges but still soft in the middle.
• Store Properly: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Almond Sugar Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your soft almond sugar cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a refreshing contrast in flavor and texture.
2. Whipped Cream: A light dollop of whipped cream enhances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit alongside your cookies for a balanced treat.
4. Chocolate Dip: Melted chocolate creates an indulgent dip that complements the almond flavor well.
5. Ice Cream Scoop: Serve with vanilla or almond-flavored ice cream for an extra decadent dessert.
6. Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote can bring warmth and sweetness that pairs nicely with the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and small errors can result in less-than-perfect cookies. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping ingredient measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial for the right texture. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure precision.
• Not softening the butter: Cold butter won’t cream properly with sugar, leading to dense cookies. Allow your butter to reach room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can activate gluten, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.
• Ignoring baking time: Baking times can vary based on your oven. Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should look set at the edges but soft in the center.
• Forgetting to cool properly: Letting cookies cool on the baking sheet allows them to firm up. Don’t skip this step; otherwise, they may crumble.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Soft Almond Sugar Cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• For optimal freshness, place parchment paper between layers of cookies.

Freezing Soft Almond Sugar Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Soft Almond Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a covered pan over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Soft Almond Sugar Cookies different from regular sugar cookies?

Soft Almond Sugar Cookies are flavored with almond extract, providing a unique taste that sets them apart from traditional sugar cookies. Their texture is also softer due to specific mixing methods.

Can I make Soft Almond Sugar Cookies dairy-free?

Yes! Simply use dairy-free butter as a substitute for regular butter, and you’ll have delicious dairy-free cookies that everyone can enjoy.

How do I customize my Soft Almond Sugar Cookies?

You can add chocolate chips, sprinkles, or nuts for additional flavors and textures. Feel free to experiment with different extracts as well!

How should I store leftover Soft Almond Sugar Cookies?

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated depending on your preference for freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Soft Almond Sugar Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile enough for any occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a sweet treat that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite toppings or mix-ins!