Almond Crescent Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a delightful, buttery treat that’s just bursting with nutty goodness, then you have to try this Almond Crescent Cookies Recipe. These delicate little crescents blend the rich flavors of almond and vanilla with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for holiday celebrations, afternoon tea, or just a cozy snack, they effortlessly balance sweetness and the satisfying crunch of finely chopped almonds. Let me walk you through this classic recipe that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create these lovely Almond Crescent Cookies. Each one plays a key role—from the softness of the butter that forms the base, to the almond extract adding that signature fragrant punch, and the confectioners’ sugar that gives each bite a delicate finish.

• Unsalted butter, softened (1 cup / 226g): Provides richness and tenderness to the dough, making the cookies wonderfully smooth.
• Granulated sugar (⅔ cup / 133g): Sweetens the dough and helps create the perfect texture without overpowering the almond flavor.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 ½ teaspoons): Adds a warm, aromatic depth that complements the almond notes beautifully.
• Almond extract (1 teaspoon): The star ingredient that gives these cookies their distinct, nutty essence.
• All-purpose flour (2 ⅓ cups / 292g): Forms the structure of the cookies, ensuring they keep their delicate shape.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon / 8g): Helps create a tender crumb by softening the flour’s protein.
• Very finely chopped almonds (¾ cup / 75g): Adds delightful texture and an extra hit of almond flavor, enhancing every bite.
• Salt (⅛ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and brings out the complexity of the flavors.
• Confectioners’ sugar (¾ cup / 90g): For rolling the cooled cookies, creating that iconic snowy, sweet coating.

How to Make Almond Crescent Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workstation

Start by lining baking sheets or flat plates with parchment paper. This step might seem small, but it’s essential for easy cookie transfer and a clean baking surface, so your cookies come out perfectly shaped and unstuck.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. This process aerates the butter, which helps develop a light and tender texture in your final cookies.

Step 3: Add the Extracts

Mix in the pure vanilla and almond extracts, infusing the dough with those signature warm and nutty flavors that make this recipe truly unique.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Almonds

Combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, finely chopped almonds, and salt. Slowly add these into the butter mixture and mix on low speed until almost combined, then increase to medium-high until the dough comes together. This ensures even distribution of nuts and an ideal dough consistency.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Take about one tablespoon of dough and gently roll it into a crescent moon shape. Place each shaped cookie on your prepared baking sheet or plate. Don’t rush this part—the gentle curve gives the cookies their charming look and perfect bite-size form.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Refrigerate the shaped cookies for at least 30 minutes up to a full day. Chilling firms up the dough which helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and enhances the flavors as the ingredients meld.

Step 7: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Set your oven to 350°F (177°C) and get your baking sheets ready by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats. Arrange the chilled cookies about 2 inches apart, giving them room to bake evenly.

Step 8: Bake Until Just Golden

Bake the cookies for 14 to 16 minutes, keeping an eye out for golden edges on the bottoms and a subtle browning on top. This careful timing ensures the cookies remain soft inside while developing a slight crispness on the outside.

Step 9: Cool on the Baking Sheet

Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet; this helps them set up so they won’t break when moved.

Step 10: Dust with Confectioners’ Sugar

Once cooled, roll each cookie gently in confectioners’ sugar until fully coated. This final touch not only adds sweetness but gives the cookies that classic, elegant look reminiscent of freshly fallen snowflakes.

How to Serve Almond Crescent Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra confectioners’ sugar right before serving keeps their delicate sweetness front and center, while slivered almonds on the side highlight their nutty character. Fresh rosemary sprigs also add a lovely aroma and a festive touch if you’re serving around the holidays.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea, rich coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a bowl of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to balance their buttery texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging your almond crescent cookies on a rustic wooden board with seasonal fruits and nuts for a charming dessert platter. You can also package them in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbons for thoughtful homemade gifts that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover almond crescent cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and tender for up to a week, making them a perfect snack to enjoy throughout the week without losing any of their charm.

Freezing

If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, freeze the shaped dough before baking or store already baked and cooled cookies in an airtight container in the freezer. Properly stored, they freeze well for up to 3 months and can be thawed gently before serving.

Reheating

For best results, let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature. If you prefer warm cookies, pop them in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes to refresh their soft, buttery texture without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I substitute almond flour instead of chopped almonds in this recipe?

While almond flour can add extra moisture and flavor, finely chopped almonds provide a wonderful crunch and texture that is key to the signature bite of these cookies. You could experiment by replacing some chopped almonds with almond flour for a slightly different texture.

Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted?

It’s best to use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt in the recipe. Using salted butter might make the cookies a bit salty, but if that’s all you have, reduce or omit the added salt in the dough.

Why is cornstarch used in the dough?

Cornstarch helps soften the flour’s proteins, resulting in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture rather than a tougher cookie. It’s a small addition that makes a big difference in the final crumb.

Can I use a different nut if I’m allergic to almonds?

You can try finely chopped pecans or walnuts, but note that the distinctive almond flavor comes from both the nuts and the almond extract, so the taste will change. For an almond-free version, omit the almond extract and select a nut based on what you enjoy most.

How long do the cookies keep their freshness?

Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies remain fresh and delicious for up to one week. Beyond that, they may start to lose their soft texture but will still be tasty.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about a batch of freshly baked Almond Crescent Cookies Recipe sitting on the counter, ready to be enjoyed. These cookies bring together the perfect balance of buttery softness, nutty crunch, and delicate sweetness that can brighten any afternoon or holiday gathering. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and find as much joy in baking and sharing them as I do!

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