0 Shares

When the Lunar New Year approaches, my kitchen transforms into a haven of tradition, bringing with it the sweet scent of nostalgia. This is the perfect time to indulge in the delightful taste of Chinese Almond Cookies, a cherished treat that not only celebrates culture but also brings families together. The nutty aroma of almond extract mingling with buttery goodness fills the air, making it an irresistible addition to any festive gathering, or even as a small pleasure during a quiet afternoon.

These cookies are a beautiful fusion of simplicity and flavor, requiring just a handful of ingredients while promising a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether you’re preparing for a vibrant celebration or simply looking to swap out fast food for something wholesome, this recipe makes baking both easy and rewarding. With a satisfying crunch from sliced almonds and a delicate crumb, these cookies will surely become a staple in your home—even if the festivities are just an excuse to treat yourself! Let’s dive into this delightful baking adventure together.

Why will you adore Chinese Almond Cookies?

Tradition: These cookies symbolize luck and prosperity, making them a meaningful treat during Lunar New Year celebrations.
Simplicity: With just a few staple ingredients, you’ll whip them up in no time, perfect for busy bakers!
Irresistible Flavor: The rich almond aroma combined with buttery goodness creates a delightful taste in every bite.
Versatile: Great as a snack, dessert, or accompaniment to tea, making them suitable for any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re sharing at a gathering or enjoying with family, these cookies are sure to impress!
Quick Prep: Baking these cookies is a breeze—ideal for those looking to enjoy homemade treats without the fuss.

Chinese Almond Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps achieve a tender texture in cookies.
Egg – Acts as a binder and contributes to the cookie’s structure; ensure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
Almond Extract – Infuses a distinct almond flavor; can increase quantity for a stronger flavor.
All-Purpose Flour – The main structural ingredient; vital for the cookie’s chewy texture.
Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise slightly; don’t substitute with baking powder without adjusting quantity.
Salt – Enhances flavor; balances the sweetness.

For the Topping

Sliced Almonds – Provides a crunchy topping; can substitute with whole almonds or omit for a smoother finish.
Egg White – Used for egg wash to create a golden color and help sliced almonds adhere to cookies.
Water – Mixed with egg white for brushing on cookies before baking.

Enjoy making these delightful Chinese Almond Cookies as lucky treats for your Lunar New Year celebrations!

How to Make Chinese Almond Cookies

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C), allowing it to reach the desired temperature for even baking.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes. This step is key for a tender texture!
Mix in Wet Ingredients: Next, add the room temperature egg and almond extract to the butter mixture, mixing well until fully combined and smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Then gradually incorporate this mixture into the butter-sugar blend until everything is well-blended but avoid overmixing.
Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets, ensuring there’s about 2 inches of space between each. Flatten slightly with a fork for better baking.
Add Almonds: Sprinkle sliced almonds on top of each cookie, gently pressing them down to secure. This adds a lovely crunch!
Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg white with a splash of water. Brush this mixture over the tops of the cookies to achieve a beautiful golden finish.
Bake: Cook the cookies in the preheated oven for about 14-16 minutes, or until the edges and bottoms are lightly browned.
Cool: After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the trays for about 2 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Optional: Serve with a warm cup of tea for a delightful treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Chinese Almond Cookies?

When it’s time to sweeten up your gatherings or enjoy a cozy afternoon at home, these cookies are the perfect companion for a well-rounded experience.

Green Tea: The subtle bitterness of freshly brewed green tea pairs beautifully with the sweetness of almond cookies, enhancing the flavors of both.
Chilled Coconut Milk: This refreshing drink adds a creamy, tropical twist that beautifully complements the nutty notes of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast.
Sesame Balls: With their crispy exterior and sweet fillings, these traditional treats bring a satisfying texture variety to the dessert table, maintaining the cultural theme.
Glutinous Rice Cake: Its chewy, sweet nature serves as a lovely contrast to the crumbly texture of almond cookies, making them a flavorful duo for Lunar New Year celebrations.
Fruit Platter: A vibrant assortment of fresh fruits like mandarins and strawberries provides a refreshing balance, lending a pop of color and flavor that enhances your dessert spread.
Matcha Cheesecake: The creamy richness and earthy flavor of this dessert create a luxurious pairing, pleasantly elevating the almond cookies to gourmet status.
Honey Ginger Tea: The soothing qualities of this fragrant tea can further enhance your cookie experience—perfect for warming the heart and soothing the soul.

How to Store and Freeze Chinese Almond Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week; this retains their delightful texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you need extra freshness, store cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container, allowing them to warm up to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 6 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in the oven to regain their fresh-baked taste.

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, gently reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–10 minutes, bringing back that comforting aroma and texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Chinese Almond Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the dough from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, just let the dough sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to soften, then proceed with shaping, adding the almonds, and baking as directed. Additionally, you can also pre-slice the almonds and store them in a small container. This way, when you’re ready to serve these delightful cookies, they’ll taste just as delicious and freshly baked, making your busy weeknights a little sweeter!

Chinese Almond Cookies Variations

Customizing your Chinese Almond Cookies can enhance their appeal and suit your personal taste, making every batch uniquely delightful!

Vanilla Twist: Substitute almond extract for vanilla extract for a different, comforting flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Delight: Use a gluten-free flour blend and add xanthan gum to maintain the dough’s structure.
Nutty Options: Swap sliced almonds for crushed pistachios or walnuts to introduce new textures and flavors.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a sweet contrast.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dough for a warm, spicy surprise in every bite.
Coconut Infusion: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with almonds.
Fruit Flavor: Incorporate finely chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a chewy, sweet addition.
Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest in the dough will brighten the flavor and give a refreshing touch to your cookies.

Expert Tips for Chinese Almond Cookies

Butter Softness: Always ensure your butter is at room temperature; this helps achieve a light and fluffy texture during creaming.
Mixing Wisely: Avoid overmixing the dough after adding flour to keep your cookies tender and prevent toughness.
Flattening Technique: Use a fork to gently flatten the cookies before baking. This promotes even cooking and helps almond slices stick better.
Flavor Adjustment: For richer almond notes, feel free to increase the amount of almond extract according to your taste preference.
Storage Know-How: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness, perfect for sharing as lucky treats during celebrations.

Chinese Almond Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best almonds for my cookies?
Absolutely! Look for whole almonds that are plump and unblemished, avoiding any with dark spots all over or a rancid smell. If you’re using sliced almonds, ensure they are fresh and stored in airtight packaging to maintain their crunchiness.

What’s the best way to store my Chinese Almond Cookies?
For the best taste and freshness, keep your cookies at room temperature in an airtight container. This method will preserve their lovely texture for up to 1 week. If you want them to last a bit longer, consider placing them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks—just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.

Can I freeze Chinese Almond Cookies, and how?
Yes, you can! For freezing, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze them for about 2 hours until firm. After that, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they can be stored for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–10 minutes.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
Very good question! If your dough is sticky, it might be due to the butter being too soft or too much humidity in the air. You can try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator, which will make it easier to handle. If needed, sprinkle in a little additional flour—start with a tablespoon at a time—to firm it up.

Are Chinese Almond Cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! To make these cookies gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free blend. Be sure to add a binding agent like xanthan gum to mimic the texture of traditional flour. This way, everyone can enjoy these delightful treats during festive celebrations!