Almond Crescent Cookies, Shortbread Type Christmas Cookie


Almond Crescent Cookies are delightful shortbread-style Christmas cookies that are buttery, tender, and filled with the delicate flavor of almonds. These cookies are shaped into crescents and dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant and festive touch. Here's a recipe to make these delicious cookies:

Ingredients:

1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (120g) finely chopped almonds

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the vanilla extract and almond extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

5. Stir in the finely chopped almonds until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

6. Take small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls. Shape each ball into a crescent by rolling it between your palms and then tapering the ends slightly.

7. Place the crescent-shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.

8. Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until they are set and lightly golden around the edges.

9. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.

10. While the cookies are still slightly warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar until coated. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Once cooled, your Almond Crescent Cookies are ready to be enjoyed!

These cookies are perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to savor a classic buttery treat with a touch of almond flavor. They make a lovely addition to cookie platters or gift packages. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they should stay fresh for several days. Enjoy these delicate and delicious almond crescent cookies!