The Best Almond Cookies Recipes to Try at Home Today

Looking for delicious, easy-to-make almond cookies recipes that will wow your taste buds and guests alike? Whether you’re after classic buttery almond cookies, vegan alternatives, gluten-free variations, or holiday favorites, this ultimate guide is packed with ideas and baking tips to help you whip up the perfect batch every time. From soft and chewy to crispy and nutty, we’ll walk you through it all.

If you’re serious about baking, don’t miss our Cookie Butter Protein Power Boost Recipe—a high-protein dessert alternative!

Introduction to Almond Cookies Recipes

What Makes Almond Cookies So Irresistible?

Almond cookies are the perfect blend of nutty, sweet, and satisfying. What sets them apart is their core ingredient—almonds. Whether in the form of almond flour, sliced almonds, or almond extract, this powerhouse nut adds both flavor and texture.

Beyond their deliciousness, almond cookies come with versatility. They can be crunchy or chewy, gluten-free or keto, festive or everyday-simple. Almond cookies recipes have stood the test of time thanks to their adaptability and the rich, buttery flavor almonds deliver in every bite.

Plus, almonds are loaded with healthy fats, fiber, protein, magnesium, and vitamin E, making them a smart choice for both indulgence and nourishment.

Brief History and Origin of Almond-Based Cookies

Almond cookies didn’t start in one place—they’re global. Italian amaretti date back to the Renaissance and are known for their chewy centers and crisp edges. Chinese almond cookies, traditionally served during Lunar New Year, symbolize good fortune and happiness. Moroccan ghriba cookies use almonds and orange blossom water, creating a fragrant and unique texture loved in North Africa.

In the United States, almond cookies gained popularity as part of the growing health-conscious and gluten-free movements. Almond flour became a common ingredient for baking lovers looking for lower-carb alternatives.

So whether you’re after a heritage-rich bite or a modern healthy snack, almond cookies deliver both tradition and taste.

Classic Almond Cookies Recipes for Beginners

Soft & Chewy Almond Cookies

If you’re craving something simple yet soul-satisfying, soft and chewy almond cookies are the way to go. These cookies have a slightly crisp exterior that gives way to a tender, melt-in-your-mouth center. What makes them perfect for beginners is the minimal ingredient list and straightforward steps.

Key Ingredients:

• Almond flour (or finely ground blanched almonds)
• Granulated sugar or brown sugar
• Egg whites
• A dash of almond extract
• Optional: vanilla extract, salt, and chopped almonds

Steps to Make:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix almond flour and sugar in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form, then gently fold into the dry mixture.
4. Add almond extract and combine until a sticky dough forms.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet and flatten slightly.
6. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until the edges are golden.

These chewy almond cookies are great with a glass of milk or hot tea. Want to try something creamy to go with it? Discover great ideas like Banana Wafer Pudding to pair with your cookies.

Crisp Italian Almond Biscuits (Biscotti Recipe)

For a crunchier treat, go Italian with a classic biscotti recipe. These almond-studded biscuits are baked twice, giving them that signature firm texture—ideal for dunking in coffee or dessert wine.

Key Ingredients:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Sugar
• Whole almonds (toasted)
• Eggs
• Butter
• Almond extract
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Steps to Make:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toast almonds for 8–10 minutes until fragrant.
2. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat eggs, sugar, and extracts until light and fluffy.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the almonds.
5. Shape dough into a log and place on a lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, then let it cool for 10 minutes.
7. Slice into ¾ inch pieces and rebake for 10 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Tip: These store beautifully for weeks in an airtight container. Perfect for gifting or long-lasting snacking.

Want to add a smoky twist to your cookie breaks? Check out how long to smoke cream cheese—a bold pairing idea you didn’t know you needed.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Almond Cookies Options

Easy Gluten-Free Almond Flour Cookies

If you’re avoiding gluten, almond flour cookies are the dream. Naturally gluten-free and grain-free, these cookies use almond flour as the base ingredient, creating a tender and slightly crumbly texture with a nutty richness that’s hard to resist.

Why Almond Flour?
Almond flour is made from blanched, finely ground almonds. It’s not only gluten-free but also packed with nutrients like Vitamin E, fiber, and healthy fats, making your sweet treat a little smarter.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups almond flour
• ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
• ¼ cup coconut oil (melted)
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until a soft dough forms.
3. Scoop and roll into small balls, then flatten slightly on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden.
5. Cool before removing—these firm up as they cool.

Not only are these cookies easy to make, but they’re also sweetened naturally and completely dairy-free. Add a few chopped dark chocolate pieces or sliced almonds for added texture.

Looking for more wholesome treats? Don’t miss our guide on Chicken Cabbage Recipes that fit perfectly into a balanced menu.

Vegan Almond Butter Cookies for Clean Eating

No eggs? No problem! Vegan almond butter cookies are chewy, satisfying, and full of plant-based goodness. These are excellent for those following a dairy-free, egg-free, or fully vegan lifestyle.

Why Use Almond Butter?
Almond butter gives cookies richness and acts as a binding agent, removing the need for eggs. It also brings extra protein and healthy fats to every bite.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup almond butter (natural and unsweetened)
• ⅓ cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water (flax egg)
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: dairy-free chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare flax egg by mixing flax meal with water. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until well blended.
4. Scoop dough onto a lined baking tray.
5. Bake for 10–12 minutes. Let cool before eating.

These cookies are soft and slightly fudgy, perfect for a guilt-free snack or dessert. Pair with almond milk or oat milk for a 100% plant-based delight.

Want another sweet & fun idea? Check out our viral Jello Cake recipe—colorful and crowd-pleasing!

International Almond Cookies Recipes You Should Try

Almond cookies are beloved all over the world, and different cultures put their own spin on this classic treat. From China to Morocco, let’s explore some must-try almond cookies recipes that bring global flair right into your kitchen.

Chinese Almond Cookies: Lunar New Year Treat

These golden, round cookies are a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. Popular during Chinese New Year celebrations, they’re lightly sweet, buttery, and finished with a whole almond in the center—simple but meaningful.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup butter (room temperature)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg + 1 yolk (for brushing)
• 1 tsp almond extract
• ½ tsp baking powder
• Whole almonds for topping

How to Make:

1. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy, then add egg and almond extract.
2. In another bowl, whisk dry ingredients and combine with the wet mix.
3. Shape into 1-inch balls, place on a tray, flatten slightly, and press a whole almond into each.
4. Brush tops with egg yolk for shine and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–17 minutes.

These cookies have a light crunch and a symbolic shape—perfect for gift baskets or festive trays. They store well too, making them a prep-ahead favorite.

Moroccan Ghriba Cookies with Almond and Orange Blossom

Moroccan Ghriba are soft, cracked-surface cookies with a chewy interior. This version features ground almonds and a delicate scent of orange blossom water. Traditionally served with mint tea, they offer a fragrant, exotic twist.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups almond meal
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 eggs
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tsp orange blossom water
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Powdered sugar (for coating)

Steps to Make:

1. Mix almond meal, powdered sugar, baking powder, zest, and eggs to form a thick dough.
2. Add orange blossom water and stir until dough holds together.
3. Roll into small balls and coat in powdered sugar.
4. Place on a tray and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 12–14 minutes.

The result? Beautifully cracked, soft cookies with a citrusy-almond aroma that lingers long after your first bite.

Looking for more dinner and dessert fusion ideas? Check out our juicy Short Ribs Guide for a main course that impresses just like these cookies do.

Holiday-Themed Almond Cookies Recipes

When the holiday season rolls around, almond cookies take center stage in cookie exchanges, family gatherings, and festive gift boxes. Their buttery, nutty flavor pairs beautifully with warm spices, fruity jams, and snowy powdered sugar toppings. Here are two must-bake almond cookie recipes for the holidays.

Christmas Almond Snowball Cookies

Also known as “Russian tea cakes” or “Mexican wedding cookies,” these powdered sugar-coated almond treats are a holiday staple. They’re buttery, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth soft—ideal for wintry afternoons with hot cocoa.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter (softened)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup finely chopped almonds
• Extra powdered sugar (for rolling)

How to Make:

1. Cream butter and powdered sugar together until fluffy.
2. Add almond extract, then gradually mix in flour.
3. Fold in chopped almonds.
4. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until bottoms are golden.
6. Roll warm cookies in powdered sugar and again once cooled.

They look like snowballs, but taste like little bites of heaven. Pro tip: Make a double batch—these disappear fast!

Looking for festive flair beyond cookies? Don’t miss our creative Jello Cake recipe for your dessert table centerpiece.

Almond Thumbprint Cookies with Jam Fillings

Thumbprint cookies are a fun, colorful, and tasty way to add variety to your holiday tray. This almond version features a soft, buttery dough rolled in chopped almonds and filled with vibrant jams.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ⅔ cup sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• 1½ tsp almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup finely chopped almonds
• Your favorite jam (raspberry, apricot, or strawberry)

Steps:

1. Beat butter, sugar, egg yolks, and almond extract until smooth.
2. Stir in flour until dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
3. Roll into balls, then into chopped almonds. Place on baking sheet.
4. Make a thumbprint indentation in each cookie.
5. Fill centers with jam and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–14 minutes.

These are colorful, buttery, and perfectly balanced with almond and fruit notes. Wrap them in cellophane bags with festive ribbon for a gift everyone loves.

Craving a unique holiday dessert pairing? Check out our smoky twist with Cream Cheese—a savory touch to contrast your sweet treats!

Low-Carb and Keto Almond Cookies Variations

Watching carbs but still have a sweet tooth? Almond cookies are a perfect low-carb dessert option thanks to almond flour’s naturally low glycemic impact. These keto-friendly versions skip the sugar without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Keto Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are crisp around the edges and soft in the center—just like classic chocolate chip cookies but without the carbs. Made with almond flour and sugar-free chocolate chips, they’re indulgent and totally guilt-free.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups almond flour
• ½ cup butter (softened)
• ½ cup erythritol or monk fruit sweetener
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ cup sugar-free chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream butter and sweetener until light. Add egg and vanilla.
3. Mix in almond flour and baking soda until dough forms.
4. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Scoop onto lined baking sheet and flatten slightly.
6. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden.

These cookies store well in the fridge and taste even better the next day. Try pairing them with unsweetened almond milk or a hot keto latte.

Want more low-carb ideas? Check out our Chicken Cabbage Recipe Ideas—perfect for balancing out your cookie snack.

Sugar-Free Almond Coconut Bites

If you love coconut, these sugar-free almond coconut bites are a dream. They’re no-bake, loaded with texture, and perfect for quick energy boosts without the sugar crash.

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups almond flour
• ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• ¼ cup coconut oil (melted)
• 3 tbsp almond butter
• 2 tbsp erythritol or stevia
• 1 tsp vanilla or almond extract

How to Prepare:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until dough holds together.
2. Roll into bite-sized balls and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
3. Optional: roll in extra shredded coconut for added texture.

These are ideal for post-workout snacks, mid-day cravings, or late-night munchies without derailing your health goals.

Looking for something even more protein-packed? Don’t miss our Cookie Butter Protein Boost recipe.

Tips, Tricks, and Storage for Perfect Almond Cookies

Baking almond cookies is easy, but making them perfect every time takes a few insider tricks. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned home baker, these tips will help you troubleshoot, enhance flavor, and extend shelf life.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Almond Cookies

1. Skipping the Chill Time:
Chilling your dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor. For almond flour-based cookies, it also makes the dough easier to handle.

2. Using Almond Meal Instead of Almond Flour (Incorrectly):
Almond meal is ground with the skin on, which creates a coarser texture. Unless the recipe allows for it, using almond meal instead of fine almond flour can lead to dense or gritty cookies.

3. Overmixing the Dough:
Too much mixing can toughen cookies. Stir only until ingredients are just combined, especially when using almond flour which doesn’t need heavy handling.

4. Overbaking:
Almond cookies continue to bake on the tray after removal. Take them out when they’re slightly golden—don’t wait for them to brown too much in the oven.

5. Not Measuring Almond Flour Properly:
Almond flour is delicate and should be spooned and leveled into the measuring cup—not packed down—to avoid dry cookies.

Want more baking hacks for meat dishes too? Discover great tips in our Shaved Beef Steak Guide.

How to Store and Freeze Almond Cookies for Freshness

Proper storage means your almond cookies stay delicious for days—or even weeks.

Room Temperature:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to help keep chewy cookies moist.

Freezing Baked Cookies:
Let them cool completely. Layer between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.

Freezing Dough:
Form dough into balls, flash freeze on a tray, and store in bags. Bake straight from frozen—just add 2–3 minutes to the baking time.

Re-crisping Cookies:
If your cookies soften over time, pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–4 minutes to refresh that golden edge.

Cookie expert tip: Label all your stored cookies with the date—especially if you’re meal prepping or baking for holidays.

Nutritional Benefits of Almonds in Cookies

Cookies that taste amazing and offer real health perks? That’s the magic of baking with almonds. Whether you’re using almond flour, almond butter, or whole chopped nuts, you’re boosting your treat with wholesome nutrition in every bite.

Health Benefits of Almonds in Your Dessert

Almonds are often called a superfood for a reason. Here’s what makes them a star ingredient in your cookies:

Adding almonds to cookies turns a simple treat into a functional snack, especially when paired with natural sweeteners or low-carb ingredients.

Comparing Almond Flour vs All-Purpose Flour in Baking

Let’s break down how almond flour stacks up against the traditional baking flour:

Using almond flour can make cookies softer, denser, and richer—perfect for chewy lovers and those following keto or gluten-free diets. And because it’s naturally sweet, you often need less added sugar in recipes.

Bonus tip: If you’re watching sugar intake, pair almond cookies with herbal tea instead of juice or sweet coffee drinks. For inspiration, explore our Cookie Butter Protein Recipe to turn cookies into clean fuel.

Creative Ways to Serve and Present Almond Cookies

Almond cookies don’t just taste good—they can look amazing too. Whether you’re hosting guests, prepping for the holidays, or gifting homemade treats, how you present your almond cookies makes a difference. Here’s how to serve and show off your baked creations in style.

Pairing Almond Cookies with Beverages

Want to elevate snack time? Pairing almond cookies with the right beverage can transform the experience from casual to café-chic.

Best Beverage Pairings:

Hosting a brunch or dessert table? Create a “cookie and coffee flight” with multiple cookie types and different brews. It’s an interactive and memorable way to serve your guests.

Gift-Worthy Packaging and Presentation Ideas

Homemade almond cookies make the perfect edible gift. Here’s how to make yours stand out:

1. Mason Jar Layers:
Stack almond cookies in wide-mouth mason jars. Tie a rustic ribbon around the lid and add a handwritten label.

2. Holiday Tins:
Use festive metal cookie tins lined with parchment. Great for keeping cookies crisp and gifting in bulk.

3. Cellophane Bags with Twine:
For parties or favors, stack 3–4 cookies in a clear cellophane bag, then secure with natural twine and a recipe card.

4. Cookie Boxes with Dividers:
For gifting multiple flavors (like almond biscotti and snowballs), use cookie boxes with built-in sections to keep textures and flavors separated.

5. Personalized Tags:
Add fun messages like “Baked with love” or “Almond joy inside” on your packaging for a thoughtful touch.

Looking for even more unique twists on classics? Explore our viral Jello Cake Guide for a colorful companion to your cookie boxes.

FAQ Section – Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion – Wrapping Up the Best Almond Cookies Recipes

Whether you’re craving a chewy treat, looking for gluten-free options, or preparing holiday gifts, almond cookies recipes offer versatility, flavor, and health benefits in every bite. From classic soft cookies to international variations like Moroccan ghriba and Chinese almond delights, there’s truly an almond cookie for every taste and occasion.

Get creative with flavors, try out different textures, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite add-ins. And when you do, don’t miss our Cookie Butter Protein Boost recipe to turn your cookies into smart, energy-packed snacks.

Soft & Chewy Almond Cookies

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 24 minutes
• Yield: 18–20 cookies 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

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Description

These soft and chewy almond cookies are naturally gluten-free, quick to make, and packed with nutty flavor. Perfect for everyday snacking or holiday baking!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups almond flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 2 egg whites
• 1 tsp almond extract
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• Sliced almonds for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix almond flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
3. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg whites until foamy (no need for stiff peaks).
4. Add the egg whites and almond extract (and vanilla, if using) to the dry ingredients. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
5. Scoop dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Gently flatten each ball and press a few sliced almonds on top, if desired.
7. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

• For chewier cookies, slightly underbake and let them set while cooling.
• You can substitute honey or maple syrup for sugar, adjusting the dry mix slightly.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: almond cookies recipes, soft almond cookies, chewy almond cookies, almond flour cookies, gluten-free almond cookies, easy almond cookies, dairy-free cookies, holiday almond cookies