Introducing the delightful creation: Almond Poppy Seed Shortbread, a decadent treat that combines the rich flavors of almond and poppy seeds with the delicate, flaky texture of shortbread cookies. With a total preparation and cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those seeking a quick yet impressive dessert option.
This recipe falls under the dessert category and is particularly suitable for occasions like Christmas or when you need to cater to large groups. It’s also a wonderful addition to any cookie or brownie selection, adding a touch of Scottish and European flair to your spread.
Each bite of these Almond Poppy Seed Shortbread cookies is a symphony of flavors and textures. The poppy seeds provide a delightful crunch, while the almond extract adds a subtle nuttiness that perfectly complements the buttery richness of the shortbread. What’s more, these cookies are not overly sweet, making them an ideal choice for those who prefer desserts with a more balanced sweetness level.
With an aggregated rating of 5 stars from 2 reviews, it’s clear that these cookies are a hit among those who have tried them. Now, let’s delve into the ingredients and instructions so you can recreate this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 4 1/2 cups of flour
- 2 cups of unsalted butter
- 1 1/4 cups of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds
- 2 tablespoons of cream cheese
- 1/3 cup of sliced almonds (for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 18 servings):
- Calories: 380.1
- Fat Content: 23.4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 14g
- Cholesterol Content: 59mg
- Sodium Content: 16.4mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 38.5g
- Fiber Content: 1.1g
- Sugar Content: 14.4g
- Protein Content: 4.2g
Instructions:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when your cookies are prepared.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, sugar, cream cheese, poppy seeds, and almond extract until well combined. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your cookies.
- Gradually add the flour to the mixture, blending well until a dough forms. Be sure not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
- Once the dough is ready, roll it into balls of your desired size and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use the palm of your hand to gently press down on each ball to flatten them slightly. These cookies will not spread much during baking, so the shape you create now will be the shape of your finished cookies.
- To add a decorative touch, place a sliced almond on top of each cookie before baking. This not only enhances the appearance of the cookies but also adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary depending on your oven and the size of your cookies.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, these Almond Poppy Seed Shortbread cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat, or package them up to give as gifts during the holiday season.
In conclusion, this recipe for Almond Poppy Seed Shortbread is a true delight for the senses, offering a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and visual appeal. Whether you’re baking them for yourself or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to be a hit. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that’s as enjoyable as it is delicious!
