Imagine a cookie so delicate, so buttery, and so irresistibly delicious that it transports you to a cozy European bakery with just one bite. Martha Stewart's Almond Crescent Cookies are not just a treat; they're a culinary experience that will make your taste buds dance and your kitchen smell like heaven. These elegant, powdered sugar-dusted crescents are the perfect blend of classic American baking with a touch of sophisticated European charm that will impress everyone from casual guests to serious food enthusiasts.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of chopped almonds. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Using your hands, form the dough into small crescent shapes, about 1 inch long. Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to ensure they do not brown too much.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This will help them set before transferring.
- Carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cookies are still warm, dust them generously with additional powdered sugar. This adds a lovely sweetness and festive touch.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving or storing. Enjoy your delicious Almond Crescent Cookies!
Tips
- Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted - this is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture.
- Use a light hand when mixing the flour to prevent tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- For uniform cookies, use a small cookie scoop or weigh each portion to ensure consistent sizing.
- Don't rush the cooling process - letting the cookies set on the baking sheet for a few minutes helps them maintain their delicate shape.
- For an extra flavor boost, toast the chopped almonds lightly before adding them to the dough.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to maintain their delicate texture.
- For a festive touch, you can add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the powdered sugar coating.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 140kcal
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
