Almond Crescents Recipe
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Almond crescent cookies are a favorite for many, especially around the holidays. These crumbly, nutty treats melt in your mouth and bring a comforting taste to any occasion.
Made with simple ingredients like butter, almond flour, and chopped almonds, almond crescent cookies are easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll find these cookies straightforward and rewarding to make. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delightful baked goods!
Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)
Butter: Use 1/2 pound of unsalted butter. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using vegan butter.
All-Purpose Flour: You’ll need 2 1/2 cups. For gluten-free cookies, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
Almond Flour: Swap out some regular flour with 1 cup of almond flour for a nutty flavor. If you don’t have almond flour, grind whole almonds until they’re fine.
Sugar: Use 1 2/3 cups of sugar. Golden baker’s sugar works well, but regular granulated sugar is fine too.
Vanilla Extract: Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. If you like a stronger vanilla taste, you can add a bit more.
Almond Extract: Use 1 teaspoon for an extra almond flavor. If you don’t have it, you can skip it, but it adds a nice touch.
Salt: Use 1/2 teaspoon to bring out the flavors. If you’re using salted butter, you can reduce the amount.
Baking Powder: Add 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder. This helps the cookies rise just a little.
Optional Ingredients
Confectioner’s Sugar: Some recipes recommend adding 3 tablespoons to the dough for extra sweetness.
Vanilla Sugar: As an alternative to vanilla extract, use 1 tablespoon of vanilla sugar.
Possible Toppings
Powdered Sugar: After baking, dust your almond crescents with powdered sugar for a classic look.
Almond Slices: Sprinkle almond slices on top before baking for added crunch and decoration.
Instructions
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup almond flour
Directions
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar. Use a mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add Extracts: Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts until they are well combined.
Combine Flours: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and almond flour to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Shape Dough: Take small tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Then shape each ball into a crescent shape by rolling it into a small log and curving it.
Bake Cookies: Place the shaped crescents onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden.
Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
When you’re making almond crescents, a few tips can make a big difference.
Use soft butter. It helps mix everything smoothly.
Measure flour properly. Spoon it into your measuring cup, then level it off.
Don’t overbake. Check the cookies early to avoid browning.
To shape the crescents:
- Take a small amount of dough, about a tablespoon.
- Roll it into a ball, then shape into a crescent.
For extra flavor:
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Try adding almond extract for a stronger almond taste.
Storing your almond crescents correctly is key to keeping them fresh:
- Room Temperature: Place cooled cookies in an airtight container. They stay good for about a week.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies. Layer them with parchment paper and use a freezer-safe container.
To thaw frozen cookies:
- Leave them at room temperature for a few hours.
- They’ll taste just as good as fresh!
These simple tips will help you make the best almond crescents, every time!
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
You can make many different variations of almond crescent cookies to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:
Dipping in Chocolate: After baking, dip the ends of the crescents in melted dark or milk chocolate. Let them cool on a parchment-lined sheet.
Powdered Sugar: Dust the cookies with powdered sugar when they come out of the oven. This adds a sweet finishing touch.
For serving, try these suggestions:
With Coffee or Tea: Serve these cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The combination of flavors is delightful.
On a Dessert Platter: Arrange them on a platter with other small cookies and pastries for a tasty assortment.
To make your cookies extra special, consider adding:
Almond Slices: Roll the dough in crushed almond slices before shaping into crescents.
Spices: Add a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm and cozy flavor.
Customization
- Ingredients: Use different extracts, such as orange or lemon, instead of vanilla for a fresh twist.
- Shapes: Besides crescents, you can roll the dough into balls or squares.
Quick Tip: If the dough feels too crumbly, press it together gently with your hands until it holds its shape.
These simple tweaks can make your almond crescent cookies uniquely yours and perfect for any occasion!
Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.
