Celebrate Prosperity: Easy Chinese New Year Almond Cookies Recipe
Chinese New Year almond cookies are a symbol of good fortune and prosperity, often taking center stage during festive family gatherings. With their golden hue, rich almond flavor, and a bright red cherry topping, these cookies bring sweetness and joy to any celebration. Easy to make and delightful to eat, they perfectly capture the spirit of Chinese New Year.
Ingredients
1 cup (120g) almond flour
1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1 egg yolk (for the dough)
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 egg yolk mixed with 1 teaspoon water (for the glaze)
15-20 red maraschino cherries, halved
Instructions
Prep and Preheat: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and almond extract, mixing until well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Shape the Cookies: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten slightly and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Decorate: Brush the tops of the cookies with the egg yolk and water mixture. Press a cherry half gently into the center of each cookie.
Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Yield: 30 cookies
Baking Pro Tips
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother dough.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined to prevent tough cookies.
Consistent Sizes: Use a cookie scoop for uniform-sized cookies that bake evenly.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer shelf life.
Chinese New Year almond cookies are a must-have treat for the festive season. Their simple preparation and delicious flavor make them a favorite among families and friends. Paired with other traditional delights like pineapple tarts or cashew nut cookies, these almond cookies complete the holiday spread. Celebrate the Lunar New Year with this recipe, and enjoy the sweetness of tradition.