Chocolate Almond Raisin Cookies: A Delicious Continental Snack
The Chocolate Almond Raisin Cookie is an irresistible, old-fashioned treat that’s bound to become a family favorite. Packed with the richness of blanched almonds, the indulgence of dark chocolate chunks, and the natural sweetness of sultana raisins, this cookie brings a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a tea party, offering them as an after-school snack, or simply enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these cookies are sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. Their simple yet rich taste makes them the perfect accompaniment to a cozy afternoon. Here’s how to make this Continental delicacy, prepared with wholesome ingredients that are a hit among vegetarians.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brown Sugar (Demerara Sugar) | 1/2 cup |
| Butter (Salted) | 1/2 cup (softened) |
| Whole Eggs | 2 |
| Dark Chocolate | 1/2 cup (chopped) |
| All-Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Sultana Raisins | 1/4 cup |
| Whole Almonds (Badam) | 1/2 cup (blanched and chopped) |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per cookie)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Sodium | 35mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 10g |
Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
45 minutes
Total Time
65 minutes
Yield
18-20 cookies
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking. -
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour (maida), baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensures your cookies bake to a perfect texture. Set the dry ingredients aside. -
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate, larger mixing bowl, beat the softened salted butter and brown sugar (Demerara sugar) together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial to achieve the right texture for your cookies. The air incorporated into the butter-sugar mixture helps them bake up beautifully. -
Incorporate the Eggs
Add the whole eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Ensure that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. -
Combine the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the sifted flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough as it can lead to dense cookies. -
Add the Raisins, Almonds, and Chocolate
Gently fold in the sultana raisins, chopped almonds, and dark chocolate chunks. These additions will bring richness, texture, and flavor to the cookies. Mix until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. -
Shape the Cookies
Take spoonfuls of the cookie dough and roll them into round balls, approximately the size of a lemon. Slightly flatten each ball with your fingers to form cookie shapes. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart to allow for spreading during baking. -
Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies should have a soft, chewy center. -
Cool and Store
Once the cookies are golden, remove them from the oven and allow them to sit on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up. Afterward, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. As they cool, the cookies will crisp up beautifully. -
Serve
Store your Chocolate Almond Raisin Cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They are perfect as a standalone snack, or paired with a cup of tea, coffee, or milk. These cookies make for an excellent after-school treat, especially when served with a refreshing Banana Orange & Spinach Smoothie for a wholesome snack!
Tips and Variations
- Nut Variations: If you prefer a different type of nut, feel free to substitute the almonds with walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts.
- Chocolate Type: While dark chocolate works wonders in this recipe, you can also use milk chocolate or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor.
- Make It Dairy-Free: To make these cookies dairy-free, simply use a non-dairy butter alternative and ensure the chocolate you choose is dairy-free.
These Chocolate Almond Raisin Cookies are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a wonderful way to incorporate nuts, raisins, and dark chocolate into a delicious snack. The combination of rich flavors and chewy texture makes these cookies a timeless classic. Whether you bake them for yourself or share them with loved ones, they are sure to be a hit at any occasion.
Enjoy these delightful cookies and bring a touch of Continental sweetness into your kitchen today!
