Almond Shortbread Cookies

🍪 Almond Shortbread Cookies 🍪

Almond shortbread cookies are a delightful treat characterized by their buttery, crumbly texture and a rich almond flavor. They are a beloved classic in the world of cookies, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

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📜 History:
Shortbread originated in Scotland in the 18th century, and it was initially known as “biscuit bread.” The name “shortbread” is derived from the term “short,” which means crumbly. Originally, shortbread was a simple combination of butter, sugar, and oat flour. Over time, it evolved into various regional variations, with almond shortbread being one of the delicious adaptations.

🥄 Components:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup ground almonds (almond meal)
• A pinch of salt
• Sliced almonds (for decoration)
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

📋 Steps to Prepare Almond Shortbread Cookies:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room-temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your cookies.

3. Add Almond Flavor: Mix in the almond extract to infuse that wonderful almond flavor into your shortbread cookies.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, and a pinch of salt. This dry mixture will give your cookies a lovely nutty texture.

5. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until the ingredients are incorporated.

6. Form the Dough: Shape the dough into a ball and flatten it slightly into a disc. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling allows the dough to firm up and makes it easier to handle.

7. Roll and Cut: Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness (usually around 1/4 inch or 0.6 cm). Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes. You can go with classic rounds or get creative with various cookie cutter shapes.

8. Decorate: Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheet. Press a few sliced almonds onto the top of each cookie to add a delightful crunch and extra almond flavor.

9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn a light golden brown.

10. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness if desired.

⏰ Time Needed:

• Preparation: 20-30 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Baking: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

These almond shortbread cookies are a delightful and timeless treat. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, their buttery, almond-infused goodness is sure to be a hit! Enjoy baking and indulging in these classic cookies. 🍪😊

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Almond Shortbread Cookies (per serving, assuming a standard portion):

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Total Fat: 10-12 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 5-6 grams
• Cholesterol: 20-25 milligrams
• Sodium: 50-60 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 1 gram
  • Sugars: 6-8 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams

Health Information:

1. Moderation: Almond shortbread cookies are a delightful treat but should be enjoyed in moderation due to their relatively high fat and sugar content. Overconsumption can lead to excessive calorie intake.

2. Fats: These cookies contain a notable amount of butter, which contributes to their rich, crumbly texture. While butter adds flavor, it’s also a source of saturated fat. Limiting saturated fat intake is recommended for heart health.

3. Calories: The calorie count per serving can vary based on the size and thickness of the cookies. Be mindful of portion sizes to manage calorie intake.

4. Sugar: These cookies contain sugar for sweetness. Excess sugar consumption can contribute to weight gain and other health issues. Consider reducing the sugar amount if you’re looking to make a slightly healthier version.

5. Protein and Fiber: Almond shortbread cookies provide a small amount of protein and fiber, but they are not a significant source of these nutrients. Consider pairing them with snacks or meals that are richer in protein and fiber to balance your diet.

6. Allergen Alert: Almonds are a tree nut, and almond meal is used in this recipe. Be cautious if you have nut allergies or are serving these cookies to someone with nut allergies.

Remember that while these cookies are delicious as an occasional treat, they should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. If you have specific dietary concerns or health goals, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.