Classic Almond Cookies Celebrate

These Chinese New Year cookies are a delightful way to add a touch of tradition and sweetness to your celebrations. Almond-infused and golden baked, they bring a lovely balance of crunch and comforting warmth that feels just right for special gatherings.

I first made these cookies to honor the holiday with something homemade. Since then, they have become a beloved part of our yearly festivities, loved by all generations.

Ingredients You Need

• All-purpose flour: provides structure and tenderness choose a fresh, finely milled flour
• Sugar: sweetens the dough and helps create slight caramelization granulated sugar works best
• Butter: gives richness and a soft, crumbly texture using unsalted butter allows better flavor control
• Egg: binds ingredients together and adds moisture for a delicate crumb
• Ground almonds: add a fragrant nutty taste and subtle texture fresh ground almonds or almond meal are ideal
• Vanilla extract: enhances the aroma and overall flavor depth
• Baking powder: acts as a leavening agent for lightness
• A pinch of salt: balances sweetness and intensifies the other flavors

Detailed Cooking Directions

Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius or 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even baking temperature for a consistent golden color.

Cream Butter and Sugar:

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture appears light and fluffy. This step incorporates air for a tender crumb.

Combine Wet Ingredients:

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.

Mix Dry Ingredients Separately:

In another bowl, sift together the flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of ingredients and prevents clumps.

Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while stirring gently until the dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Shape The Dough:

Form the dough into small balls about the size of a walnut. Place them spaced on a baking tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Bake Till Golden:

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Look for a delicate golden color around the edges as a sign of doneness.

Cool Before Serving:

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking tray for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up for the perfect bite.

One of my favorite ingredients is the ground almond, which lends these cookies their signature flavor. I remember baking these with family members, sharing stories and laughter, making each batch feel like a reunion.

Smart Storage Tips

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp but tender for up to a week Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking if stacking is necessary For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container and thaw at room temperature before serving

Ingredient Variations

Swap ground almonds with finely chopped pistachios for a vibrant green twist and subtle flavor change Add an orange zest for a fresh citrus note that pairs beautifully with almond Use brown butter instead of regular butter for a nutty, caramel-like flavor depth

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Serve alongside a warm jasmine or green tea which complements the light nuttiness of the cookies A small bowl of sweet red bean paste makes for a traditional and harmonious accompaniment Pair with a delicate glass of sweetened soy milk for a comforting and festive treat

Cultural Inspiration

These cookies are inspired by classic Chinese New Year treats symbolizing good fortune and prosperity The almond flavor celebrates the nourishing and auspicious qualities attributed to nuts in Chinese culture Baking and sharing these during the festival is a cherished tradition that bridges generations and spreads joy

These Chinese New Year cookies capture both tradition and delight in every golden bite. Baking them has become a special way to connect with heritage while creating new memories around the kitchen table.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What gives these cookies their almond flavor?

Ground almonds are incorporated into the dough, providing a natural nutty flavor and texture that complements the sweetness.

→ Can I substitute the vanilla extract?

Yes, almond or orange essence can be used to introduce a different aromatic note while maintaining the cookie's traditional taste.

→ What is the best way to achieve a golden color?

Baking at 180°C (350°F) for 12-15 minutes ensures the cookies develop a golden hue without overbaking.

→ How can I make these cookies richer in flavor?

Using browned butter instead of regular butter adds a deeper, nutty aroma that enhances the overall taste.

→ Is it necessary to let the cookies cool before serving?

Allowing the cookies to cool helps them set properly and improves their texture and flavor balance.