Why You’ll Love Soft Almond Sugar Cookies Recipe

Perfectly soft texture: These cookies are chewy and tender with a melt-in-your-mouth softness that’s irresistible.
Almond flavor: A subtle almond extract adds a nutty richness that makes these cookies stand out.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and minimal effort, these cookies are quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter
Egg
Almond extract
Baking soda
Salt
Optional: Sprinkles or coarse sugar for rolling

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and almond extract to the butter mixture and beat until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and optionally roll them in coarse sugar or sprinkles for a little extra sparkle.
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Makes: About 24 cookies
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 20–22 minutes

Variations

Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts (like slivered almonds), or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
Flavored frosting: Once the cookies are cooled, you can drizzle them with a simple almond glaze or frosting for an extra sweet touch.
Gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them up in a preheated oven at 300°F for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Almond flour won’t work as a direct substitute for all-purpose flour in this recipe. You can try using almond flour in combination with another flour, but it will change the texture.

Can I use other extracts instead of almond extract?

Yes! If you prefer a different flavor, vanilla extract, hazelnut extract, or even lemon extract can make a great substitute.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden, but the center should still look slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, place them directly on the baking sheet and bake as usual.

How can I make these cookies more festive?

Roll the dough balls in red or green sprinkles, or use seasonal sprinkles and cookie cutters for special occasions like Christmas or holidays.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

Are these cookies crispy or soft?

These cookies are meant to be soft and chewy, with slightly crisp edges. If you prefer a crunchier cookie, you can bake them a bit longer, but watch closely to avoid over-baking.

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar, but it will result in a slightly softer, chewier texture and add a hint of molasses flavor.

What can I do if the dough is too sticky to roll?

If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before rolling. This will make it easier to handle.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them soft, you can place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies.

Conclusion

These Soft Almond Sugar Cookies are the perfect balance of sweetness, softness, and almond flavor. They’re a simple and delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea, sharing them with friends, or giving them as a gift, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

Soft Almond Sugar Cookies

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These Soft Almond Sugar Cookies are buttery, sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. With the perfect balance of almond flavor and a soft, chewy texture, these cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special celebration, or just because, these almond sugar cookies are sure to impress.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 20-22 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Category: Cookies
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Set aside.
Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the egg and extracts: Beat in the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If the dough feels too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk to achieve the desired texture.
Form the cookies: Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls. Roll each dough ball in sugar to coat it, then place it on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Flatten slightly: Using the bottom of a glass or your fingers, gently flatten each dough ball.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the center remains soft.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Almond extract: The almond extract is key to the distinct flavor of these cookies. If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount slightly.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. These cookies also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Decoration: For extra flair, sprinkle the cookies with colored sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.