Almond Butter Cup Cookies
These Almond Butter Cup Cookies are the perfect indulgence for those who crave a sweet yet wholesome treat. With a chewy almond butter base, paired with the rich flavor of dark chocolate, these cookies are both nutritious and satisfying. Ideal for anyone who loves to bake with natural ingredients, these cookies combine the creamy texture of almond butter with the delicate sweetness of coconut crystals, all enveloped in a glossy chocolate coating. Whether you’re preparing a dessert for a special occasion or just looking for an everyday treat, these cookies are sure to impress.
Category: Desserts
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 90 minutes (includes chilling)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Almond butter | 1 cup | Use smooth almond butter for best results |
| Coconut crystals | ½ cup | A natural sweetener alternative to sugar |
| Vanilla bean extract | 1 teaspoon | Adds a rich and fragrant depth of flavor |
| Almond extract | 1 teaspoon | Enhances the nutty flavor of the almond butter |
| Whole eggs | 2 | Bind the ingredients together and provide structure |
| Almond flour (blanched) | 1 cup | Adds texture and flavor while keeping the cookies gluten-free |
| Coconut flour | 2 tablespoons | Absorbs moisture and provides a subtle coconut flavor |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Enhances sweetness and balances flavors |
| Dark chocolate (unsweetened, chopped) | 1 cup | For the decadent chocolate coating |
Allergen Information
- Contains: Tree nuts (almonds), eggs.
- May contain traces of: Gluten (depending on the almond flour brand), dairy (depending on chocolate choice).
Dietary Preferences
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is made with almond flour and coconut flour, making it naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: By using unsweetened dark chocolate and coconut oil for greasing, this recipe can be made dairy-free.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Coconut crystals replace refined sugar, providing a healthier alternative.
- Low-Carb: With almond flour and coconut flour, these cookies are relatively low in carbohydrates, making them suitable for low-carb diets.
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare your baking sheet by lightly greasing it with coconut oil or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal of cookies.
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In a medium bowl, combine the almond butter, coconut crystals, eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
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In another bowl, mix the dry ingredients: almond flour, coconut flour, and salt. Stir until evenly combined.
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Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, and stir until fully combined. You should have a dough-like consistency.
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Form golf ball-sized portions of the dough and press each one into the shape of a peanut butter cup. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
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Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 minutes or until slightly golden on the edges.
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Chill the cookies in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to help them firm up before adding the chocolate layer.
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While the cookies chill, melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler over medium heat. Stir occasionally until smooth and melted. Allow the melted chocolate to cool for about 15 minutes.
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Once the cookies have chilled, pour the melted chocolate over each cookie, ensuring a smooth, even coating.
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Serve and enjoy! These Almond Butter Cup Cookies are best stored in an airtight container and can be enjoyed over several days, though they rarely last that long!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 173 kcal
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 4g
Tips & Advice
- Chill Time: The chilling step is essential for allowing the chocolate to set properly on the cookies and ensures they hold their shape.
- Chocolate Coating: For an extra indulgent treat, you can use milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate, depending on your preference. If you prefer a firmer chocolate coating, chill the cookies a little longer after pouring the chocolate.
- Storage: These cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to preserve their freshness.
- Variations: Feel free to add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the melted chocolate for a sweet-salty contrast. You can also try incorporating chopped nuts or shredded coconut into the cookie dough for added texture.
Conclusion
These Almond Butter Cup Cookies are a delicious blend of nutty almond flavor, a touch of coconut sweetness, and rich dark chocolate. With simple, wholesome ingredients, they’re perfect for anyone looking for a treat that satisfies a sweet tooth while staying in line with healthier, more natural dietary choices. Whether for a special dessert or a treat to enjoy with friends, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
