Are you looking for an easy, elegant dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! These almond lace cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion – from casual weeknight gatherings to fancy holiday parties. Their delicate, lacy texture and nutty flavor will impress even the most discerning palates. This recipe provides a delightful balance of sweet and nutty, making them an ideal addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes. Let's dive into this quick dinner idea that's surprisingly sophisticated!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for enhanced almond flavor)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This is crucial for easy removal of the delicate cookies.
Making the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key to achieving a tender cookie. Use an electric mixer for best results.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
Baking the Cookies:
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. The dough will spread quite thin.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as they bake quickly.
- Carefully remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will be very delicate when they first come out of the oven.
Finishing Touches:
- Once completely cool, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.
Tips for Success:
- Softened Butter is Key: Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted. This will help create a smooth and creamy dough.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough will develop the gluten in the almond flour, resulting in tough cookies.
- Proper Spacing: Leave enough space between the cookies as they spread significantly during baking.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents breakage.
Variations:
- Chocolate Almond Lace Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Citrus Almond Lace Cookies: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough for a bright, refreshing twist.
- Spiced Almond Lace Cookies: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm, comforting flavor.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 80-90 Fat: 5-6g Sugar: 7-8g Protein: 1-2g
These figures are estimates and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
These almond lace cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert spread. Their delicate texture and nutty flavor will make them a favorite among friends and family. Enjoy the homemade cooking experience and the satisfyingly crispy results! They are a perfect example of easy recipes that yield impressive results. Making these cookies is a fun and rewarding experience, perfect for beginner bakers looking to create something beautiful and delicious.