If you have a soft spot for tender, buttery treats with a delightful nutty twist, you are going to fall head over heels for this Almond Meltaway Cookies Recipe. These cookies practically melt on your tongue, thanks to their delicate crumb and the enchanting flavor of almond extract woven throughout. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon tea or a festive gathering, this recipe brings together simple ingredients that transform into irresistibly light, melt-in-your-mouth morsels. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your new favorite go-to cookie.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Almond Meltaway Cookies Recipe plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the creamy butter that ensures softness to the almond extract that brings that signature nutty aroma, each item is simple yet essential for baking success.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides rich flavor and a tender, meltaway texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps create a slight crispiness on the outside.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together while adding moisture and lift.
- 2 teaspoons almond extract: The star flavor that infuses every bite with lovely, aromatic almond notes.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The structure of the cookie, keeping everything together while light and tender.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds just enough lift to keep the cookies delicate.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For a smooth final glaze that adds extra sweetness and softness.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons milk: Thins out the glaze for easy spreading or drizzling.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: Intensifies the almond flavor in the glaze for a double dose of yum.
- Sliced almonds, for garnish (optional): Adds a pretty, crunchy finish that complements the meltaway texture.
How to Make Almond Meltaway Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup a breeze. Prepping your oven and baking surface upfront sets the stage for perfectly baked cookies.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this is key to those tender cookies. Then, beat in the egg and 2 teaspoons of almond extract, letting the almond flavor start to infuse the dough.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures even distribution of the rising agent and seasoning. Gradually add this dry mix into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Over-mixing here could toughen the cookies, so be gentle!
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each into a smooth ball. Place the balls onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Then, gently flatten each ball slightly with your fingers to help them spread evenly when baking.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges look set but are not browned. These cookies should stay pale to maintain their meltaway texture. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely—this step helps them firm up just right.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
While the cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract until smooth. This luscious glaze adds a sweet, glossy finish and an additional hint of almond. Spread or drizzle the glaze over the completely cooled cookies, then sprinkle sliced almonds on top if you like a little crunch and visual appeal.
How to Serve Almond Meltaway Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies are so pretty topped with sliced almonds, which add just the right crunch to contrast the soft cookie. A light dusting of powdered sugar after glazing can also make them look extra festive and inviting.
Side Dishes
Almond Meltaway Cookies make a fantastic companion to a hot cup of tea, coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. They also pair well with fresh fruit or a light fruit salad for a delightful dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, arrange your almond meltaways in pretty stacks tied with a ribbon, or place them in a decorative tin to give as a homemade gift. You can also sandwich pairs with a thin layer of jam or almond butter for an extra indulgent touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your baked Almond Meltaway Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and soft for up to a week, making them perfect for baking ahead of time.
Freezing
You can freeze the unglazed cookie dough balls by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transferring them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the bake time. Alternatively, freeze fully baked and glazed cookies wrapped tightly to preserve freshness.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked softness, warm the cookies for about 10 seconds in the microwave or let them come to room temperature if frozen. Avoid overheating to maintain the meltaway texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute almond extract with another flavor?
Absolutely! While almond extract is the star of this recipe, vanilla extract can be used for a more classic flavor. However, the cookies won’t have that signature almond aroma and taste that make this recipe special.
What type of flour works best for Almond Meltaway Cookies Recipe?
All-purpose flour is ideal here as it provides the right structure while keeping the cookies tender. Using cake flour might make them too delicate, and bread flour could result in a chewier texture.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures like regular flour. Be mindful that the texture might vary slightly, but the almond flavor will still shine.
Why do the cookies melt away so easily?
The high butter content combined with the gentle mixing and the absence of heavy leavening agents create that tender, crumbly texture. Baking just until set also prevents the formation of a firm crust, resulting in that delightful melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
Is it necessary to glaze the cookies?
The glaze adds sweetness and intensifies the almond flavor, enhancing the cookie’s overall appeal. However, the cookies are delicious on their own and can be served without glaze if you prefer a simpler treat.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to bake something truly special yet surprisingly simple, I can’t recommend this Almond Meltaway Cookies Recipe enough. It’s a warm hug in cookie form, perfect for sharing or savoring solo with your favorite beverage. Once you master these, you’ll understand why they’re a beloved classic that never goes out of style. Happy baking!
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Almond Meltaway Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Almond Meltaway Cookies are delicate, buttery cookies infused with almond extract and topped with a sweet almond glaze. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are perfect for tea time or special occasions, combining a tender texture with a subtle nutty flavor enhanced by a light powdered sugar glaze and optional sliced almonds.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Almond Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- Sliced almonds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to ensure even baking.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add the egg and 2 teaspoons of almond extract and mix well to combine the wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Shape the Dough: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll each into a ball. Place the dough balls spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet, then slightly flatten each ball using your fingers to help them bake evenly and form the signature cookie shape.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are set but the cookies are not browned, ensuring a tender meltaway texture. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract until smooth. Drizzle or spread this glaze evenly over the cooled cookies. If desired, garnish with sliced almonds to add a crunchy texture and additional almond flavor.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.
- Do not overbake the cookies; they should remain pale with just set edges to keep their meltaway texture.
- The almond glaze adds sweetness and moisture; be sure cookies are fully cooled before glazing to prevent melting.
- Sliced almonds are optional but recommended for visual appeal and extra crunch.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
