Almond Breton Biscuits

🍪 Almond Breton Biscuits 🍪

Almond Breton biscuits, also known as “Sablé Breton aux Amandes” in French, are delightful buttery cookies with a crisp texture and a rich almond flavor. These biscuits originate from the Brittany region in France, known for its buttery pastries and delicious treats.

📜 History:
The history of Almond Breton biscuits can be traced back to the Brittany region of France, which is renowned for its high-quality butter and dairy products. The traditional Breton biscuit, or “sablé,” was initially a simple shortbread-like cookie made with butter, sugar, and flour. Over time, almonds were added to enhance the flavor and texture of the biscuit. This combination of buttery goodness and almond crunch gave birth to the Almond Breton biscuit, a delightful treat enjoyed by many.

🧁 Components:
The primary components of Almond Breton biscuits include:

1. Butter: High-quality unsalted butter is essential for the rich, buttery flavor.
2. Sugar: Granulated sugar is used to sweeten the biscuits.
3. Almonds: Sliced or chopped almonds are added to provide a delightful crunch and almond flavor.
4. Flour: All-purpose flour is used to give structure to the biscuits.
5. Egg Yolk: Some recipes include egg yolk for a smoother texture.

👩‍🍳 Preparation Steps:
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare Almond Breton biscuits:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sliced or chopped almonds

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Gradually add the flour and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a crumbly texture.
4. Gently fold in the almonds.
5. Form the dough into a log shape, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
9. Allow the biscuits to cool on a wire rack before enjoying.

⏰ Time Needed:
The preparation time for Almond Breton biscuits may vary, but typically it takes around 15-20 minutes to prepare the dough, plus an additional 1 hour for chilling. Baking time is about 12-15 minutes. So, in total, you can expect to spend approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes to make these delightful biscuits.

Enjoy your homemade Almond Breton biscuits! 🍪😄

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Almond Breton Biscuits:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 150-180 calories per biscuit (varies based on size and ingredients used).
• Total Fat: About 10-12 grams, primarily from butter and almonds.
• Saturated Fat: Around 5-6 grams (due to the butter content).
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams.
• Sugar: About 5-8 grams (from added sugar and naturally occurring in almonds).
• Protein: Around 2-3 grams (from almonds and a small amount from the egg yolk).
• Fiber: Minimal fiber content, primarily from almonds.

Health Information:

1. Moderation: Almond Breton biscuits are a delicious treat but should be enjoyed in moderation due to their relatively high calorie and fat content. They are not a low-calorie snack.

2. Rich in Butter: These biscuits are buttery, which gives them their delightful flavor but also contributes to their saturated fat content. Saturated fats should be consumed in moderation as they can raise cholesterol levels.

3. Almonds: Almonds are a nutritious addition, providing healthy fats, fiber, and some protein. They are also a good source of vitamin E and minerals like magnesium and calcium.

4. Sugar: The sugar content is relatively moderate for a dessert, but it’s still essential to be mindful of added sugars in your diet.

5. Egg Yolk: The egg yolk adds some richness to the biscuits but also contributes to the cholesterol content. However, the cholesterol in eggs may not significantly impact blood cholesterol levels in most people when consumed in moderation.

6. Portion Control: To enjoy these biscuits without overindulging, consider portion control. One or two biscuits can satisfy your sweet cravings without excessive calorie intake.

7. Pairing: Consider pairing Almond Breton biscuits with a cup of tea or coffee, which can enhance the overall experience and help control portion size.

Remember that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients used. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized advice.