Irresistibly Easy Almond Meltaway Cookies: Your New Favorite Buttery Treat Recipe
There’s a special place in my heart, and certainly in my kitchen, for the unparalleled flavor of almond. It’s a versatile ingredient that transforms ordinary baked goods into something truly extraordinary. My obsession, if you could call it that, centers around a really high-quality pure almond extract, like the exquisite one from Penzey’s. The aroma alone is enough to get any baker excited, and its depth of flavor is simply enchanting.
This incredible extract doesn’t just shine in cookies; it’s a revelation in rich frostings and delicate glazes, adding a sophisticated touch to any sweet creation. I’ve even experimented by adding a hint of it to my morning oatmeal, elevating a simple breakfast into a gourmet experience. So, when I stumbled upon this particular recipe for almond meltaway cookies, I knew instantly they would rocket to the very top of my must-bake list. And oh, how right I was! These cookies are nothing short of “Almond-azing,” living up to their name with every delicate bite.
What truly sets these Almond Meltaway Cookies apart is their ethereal texture. As the name suggests, they literally melt in your mouth, leaving behind a delightful almond essence. This unique quality comes from a careful balance of ingredients and a tender baking process that ensures a cookie that’s both rich in flavor and incredibly light. They are the epitome of simple elegance, perfect for any occasion, from a cozy afternoon tea to a festive holiday gathering. The simplicity of their preparation belies the sophisticated taste they deliver, making them a favorite among bakers of all skill levels.
Imagine these delicate treats, still warm from the oven, draped in a silky, sweet almond glaze. The warmth of the cookie gently softens the glaze, allowing it to settle into every crevice, creating an irresistible sheen and an extra layer of almond deliciousness. It’s a moment of pure culinary bliss that’s hard to replicate with any other cookie. The combination of the crumbly, tender cookie base and the smooth, flavorful glaze creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will have you reaching for just one more.
Baking these almond meltaways isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s an experience. The kitchen fills with the sweet, nutty scent of almonds, promising a delightful reward for your efforts. Each step, from mixing the buttery dough to drizzling the final glaze, is a joyous part of the process. And the best part? These cookies are surprisingly quick and easy to make, meaning you can whip up a batch whenever a craving strikes, or when you need a quick, impressive dessert to share with loved ones.
Let’s dive into the specifics of creating these magnificent cookies. The key to their delicate structure lies in using softened butter and not overworking the dough. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to a tougher cookie, and we want nothing less than that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. Also, precise baking time is crucial. Keep a close eye on them; the moment the edges begin to turn a light golden color, they’re ready to come out of the oven. They might seem soft, but they’ll firm up perfectly as they cool.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your culinary journey, these Almond Meltaway Cookies are a rewarding project. They’re a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with care and a touch of the finest almond extract, can create something truly unforgettable. Prepare to impress your family and friends with these delicate, buttery, and utterly delicious almond treats.
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Print Recipe
Almond Meltaways
5 minutes
25 minutes
30 minutes
American
Almond Meltaways, Almond Cookies, Buttery Cookies, Easy Cookie Recipe
3
dozen cookies
89
kcal
An Affair from the Heart
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Ingredients
- FOR THE COOKIES:
-
2
cups
all-purpose flour -
1/2
teaspoon
baking powder -
1/2
teaspoon
salt -
2
sticks unsalted butter
softened to room temperature -
3/4
cup
granulated sugar -
1
large egg -
2
teaspoons
pure almond extract
for best flavor, try Penzey’s! - FOR THE GLAZE:
-
1
cup
powdered sugar -
1
Tablespoon
milk -
2
teaspoons
almond extract
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C).
-
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for the cookies. Set aside.
-
In the bowl of your stand mixer (or with a hand mixer), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and almond extract until well combined.
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined and smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
-
To form cookies, roll small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) into balls. Place them on ungreased baking sheets and gently press to flatten each cookie with the bottom of a glass or fork.
-
Bake for approximately 8 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn a light golden color. Ovens vary, so watch closely. Do not overbake to maintain the “meltaway” texture.
-
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
-
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Drizzle or gently spread the glaze over the warm (but not hot) cookies. The glaze will set as the cookies cool completely.
-
These delightful Almond Meltaways are wonderful served with a cup of tea or coffee, or as a light dessert after any meal!
Nutrition
Serving:
1
|
Calories:
89
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
9
g
|
Protein:
1
g
|
Fat:
5
g
|
Saturated Fat:
3
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
2
g
|
Cholesterol:
19
mg
|
Sodium:
79
mg
|
Sugar:
4
g
Tips for Perfect Almond Meltaway Cookies
Achieving that perfect “meltaway” texture is simpler than you might think, but a few key tips can make all the difference. Firstly, ensure your butter is genuinely softened, not melted. Softened butter creams beautifully with sugar, incorporating air that contributes to the cookie’s lightness. Secondly, avoid overmixing the dough once the flour is added. Mix just until combined; too much agitation develops gluten, which can make cookies tough instead of tender.
When forming your cookies, aim for uniform size. This ensures even baking, so all your cookies are perfectly done at the same time. The gentle flattening with a glass bottom not only creates a lovely shape but also helps them bake evenly. Finally, oven temperatures can vary, so keep a close watch during the last few minutes of baking. The goal is barely golden edges; the centers should still look pale. They will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
These Almond Meltaway Cookies are delightful on their own, but they truly shine when paired thoughtfully. They are the quintessential companion for a warm cup of coffee or a comforting mug of tea. For a special occasion, consider serving them alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to create a more elaborate dessert experience. Their delicate almond flavor complements a wide range of other flavors without being overpowering.
To keep your almond meltaways fresh and tender, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain wonderfully soft and flavorful for up to 3-5 days. If you’re planning to make them ahead for a party or as a gift, they also freeze beautifully. Place the unglazed cookies in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag, separated by parchment paper, for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature and then glaze just before serving for the freshest taste and appearance.
Variations to Customize Your Meltaways
While the classic Almond Meltaway is perfect as is, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences or create new flavor profiles. For an extra nutty crunch, try folding in a quarter cup of finely chopped toasted almonds into the cookie dough. You could also experiment with other extracts; a touch of vanilla bean paste alongside the almond extract adds another layer of warmth, or a hint of orange zest can provide a bright, citrusy counterpoint to the almond.
For the glaze, feel free to get creative! A sprinkle of toasted almond slivers on top of the wet glaze adds visual appeal and texture. You could also tint the glaze with a tiny drop of food coloring for holiday themes, or add a very small pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm spice note. The possibilities are endless when it comes to making these already fantastic cookies uniquely yours.
These Almond Meltaway Cookies represent the best of homemade baking: simple ingredients, a straightforward process, and an utterly delicious result. They are the kind of cookie that brings smiles and comfort with every bite, a true testament to the timeless appeal of almond flavor. Don’t hesitate to add this recipe to your baking repertoire; it’s guaranteed to become a cherished favorite in your home.
Recipe adapted from Secrets From The Cookie Princess.