These almond-stuffed cookies combine a rich, flavorful almond filling with a soft and slightly chewy cookie dough, accented with sliced almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar. The delightful mix of textures and the robust almond flavor make these cookies a sophisticated treat, perfect for almond lovers. The subtle hint of rum or vanilla in the filling adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of these baked delights.
Why You'll Love This: These cookies offer a unique experience with each bite, from the crunchy sliced almonds on the exterior to the soft, rich almond paste center. The dual textures and flavors are sure to please anyone looking for a cookie that's a step above the ordinary. The use of both almond flour and almond extract in the filling ensures that the almond taste is prominent and satisfying.
Perfect Occasion: These cookies are fantastic for special occasions such as holiday gatherings, tea parties, or as a refined dessert at dinner parties. They also make great gifts during festive seasons, beautifully packaged in a tin or gift box. Their elegant appearance and delightful taste make them suitable for both casual and formal events.
Decoration Tips: For a beautiful presentation, ensure that each cookie is generously dusted with powdered sugar before serving. The white sugar adds a contrast to the golden-brown color of the baked cookies and enhances their visual appeal. Additionally, arranging the cookies on a platter with a few whole almonds can accentuate the almond theme.
Ingredients:
- Almond Filling:
- 2 cups almond flour (200g)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (175g)
- 1 large egg
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (42g)
- 2 tsp rum or vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract
- Cookie Dough:
- 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted (226g)
- 1 cup + 2 tbsp granulated sugar (220g)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (50g), plus more for garnishing
- 1 large egg (50g)
- 1 tsp almond extract
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (390g)
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- Prepare Almond Filling:
- Whisk the egg in a medium bowl. Mix in almond flour, granulated sugar, melted butter, rum (or vanilla extract), and almond extract. Chill in the refrigerator.
- Prepare Cookie Dough:
- Combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar in a large bowl. Stir in the egg, almond extract, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Gradually mix in the flour until the dough is cohesive.
- Assemble the Cookies:
- Shape the dough into balls using a quarter-cup ice cream scoop. Flatten each ball into a pancake. Place a scoop of almond filling in the center of each and fold the dough around the filling, rolling it into a smooth ball.
- Press sliced almonds into the top of each cookie. Chill the shaped cookies.
- Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking tray. Bake for 14-16 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Dust with powdered sugar.
Enjoy these exquisite almond-stuffed cookies, a perfect blend of crunchy, soft, and sweet elements, making them a delightful treat for any occasion!
