- Almond Snowball Cookies: Perfect for Holiday Baking!
- Granulated Sugar
- Unsalted Butter (Cold, Cut into Small Pieces)
- Almond Flour (Alternative to Wheat Flour for a Nutty Twist)
- Vanilla Extract (Adds Flavor Depth)
- Pinch of Salt (Enhances Other Flavors)
- Powdered Sugar (For Rolling and Coating, Adds Lightness)
- Edible Almonds (Optional Garnish, Adds Crunch and Aesthetic Appeal)
Steps
### Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe: A Delicious Holiday Treat
Almond snowball cookies are a delightful treat that combine the nutty flavor of almonds with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect as a holiday cookie or any time snack, these cookies are easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/3 cup almond flour (or use regular all-purpose flour for a smoother texture)
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Grated zest of one lemon (optional, but enhances flavor)
- Pinch of salt
- Almonds, chopped (for rolling)
#### Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Preparation:**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy.
2. **Adding Dry Ingredients:**
- Gradually mix in the almond flour, salt, and vanilla extract. Ensure everything is well combined.
- Add the egg yolk and lemon zest (if using), then stir to incorporate fully.
3. **Forming the Dough:**
- Chill the dough for about 15 minutes to make it easier to handle. This step prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface with a rolling pin until it is about 1/8 inch thick.
4. **Cutting and Shaping:**
- Use a cookie cutter to cut circles of dough, then roll them in chopped almonds.
- Place the almond-coated cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie as they will spread slightly during baking.
5. **Baking:**
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set but still soft to the touch.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. **Storing:**
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
### Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, you can add a bit of almond extract along with the vanilla.
- Experiment with different types of nuts like pecans or hazelnuts if you prefer a different texture.
- To make them look more festive, use food coloring to tint the dough in holiday colors.
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By following these detailed steps and using the SEO-friendly keywords, you can ensure that your Almond Snowball Cookies not only taste amazing but also rank well in search results for anyone looking to bake these delightful treats. Enjoy crafting this classic cookie!