Jump to Recipe Print RecipeA delicious aroma wafts through my kitchen as I pull a tray of freshly baked cookies from the oven. These chewy almond cookies with frangipane centers are a delightful blend of texture and rich flavor that will have you reminiscing about your favorite bakery treats. What makes them truly special is how simple they are to make; with just a handful of ingredients, you can achieve a home-baked masterpiece that feels luxurious without the fuss. Topped with sliced almonds and a light dusting of powdered sugar, each cookie is like an almond croissant in snackable form. Who wouldn’t want to share that kind of bliss? So, are you ready to dive into the world of baking and treat yourself to these elegant cookies that are bound to impress? Why Are These Almond Cookies Irresistible? Simplicity at its finest: With just a few basic ingredients, you’ll have a bakery-quality treat right from your kitchen. Chewy Texture combined with a rich frangipane center offers a unique experience that’s hard to resist. Versatile and easy to customize: Add chocolate chips or citrus extracts to match your cravings or dietary needs. Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are an instant crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for gatherings or gifts. If you love cookies as much as I do, check out my Kitchen Sink Cookies for another delicious option! Elegant Presentation: A dusting of powdered sugar and sliced almonds transforms these cookies into a stunning dessert that will impress any guest. Almond Cookies Ingredients For the Cookie Dough Unsalted Butter (melted) – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index. Brown Sugar – Contributes to moisture and a caramel flavor; use light or dark brown sugar interchangeably. Egg Yolks – Acts as a binding agent and adds richness; can be replaced with 1 tbsp of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water for a vegan alternative. Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; use pure vanilla extract for the best taste, while imitation can work in a pinch. Almond Extract – Delivers the essential almond flavor; substitute with a few drops of vanilla extract for a less pronounced almond taste. Ground Almonds – Provides both texture and flavor; almond flour may be used for a finer texture. All-purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; for gluten-free options, use a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour. Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Both serve as leavening agents to help cookies rise slightly. Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness. For the Frangipane Center Ground Almonds – Offers a rich almond flavor and texture to the filling; make sure to use fresh almonds for the best taste. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frangipane; essential for achieving that lovely creaminess in the center. For Topping & Serving Sliced Almonds – Adds crunch and visual appeal; chopped nuts can be used as a substitute. Powdered Sugar – For dusting on finished cookies; optional but adds a beautiful finish to the presentation. These almond cookies will surely delight, featuring a chewy consistency complemented by a sweet frangipane center that takes every bite to another level! Enjoy your decadent baking adventure! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Almond Cookies with Frangipane Centers Step 1: Prepare Frangipane In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth and creamy. Next, gently fold in the ground almonds, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt to combine well. Your frangipane mixture should be thick and well-blended; set it aside while you prepare the cookie dough. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until evenly mixed to ensure your almond cookies rise beautifully and evenly during baking. Once well combined, set the bowl aside as you focus on the wet ingredients. Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugars In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. The sugars should be well incorporated, creating a pale mixture that promises rich flavor in your chewy almond cookies. Step 4: Incorporate Egg Yolks & Extracts Add in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the creamed butter and sugars. Mix on medium speed until everything is blended and the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, indicating the fats have been well-emulsified, contributing to the delightful texture of your cookies. Step 5: Combine Mixtures Gradually add the dry ingredients and ground almonds to the wet mixture in your large bowl. Mix on low speed until just combined, taking care not to overmix. You want a soft, slightly sticky dough for your almond cookies that’s well-integrated but maintains some texture from the ground almonds. Step 6: Form Dough Using a cookie scoop, portion out about 18 balls of dough and gently roll them between your palms. Create a slight indent in each ball and spoon a small amount of frangipane into the center, then top with sliced almonds. Ensure everything is compact to keep the filling secure while baking. Step 7: Bake Place the formed cookies, spaced about 2 inches apart, on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 13½ minutes, until they are light golden around the edges, giving them that delightful contrast of textures you love in almond cookies. Step 8: Cooling & Serving After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before gently transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, dust the chewy almond cookies with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish, making them irresistible and ready to share with friends and family. Make Ahead Options These chewy almond cookies with frangipane centers are perfect for meal prep aficionados! You can prepare the frangipane filling up to 3 days in advance; just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain its rich flavor. Additionally, you can scoop and form the cookie dough balls up to 24 hours ahead of baking. Simply place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, pop the cookies in the oven according to the baking instructions—no need to thaw! You’ll have fresh, decadent almond cookies with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you had made them all in one go! How to Store and Freeze Almond Cookies Room Temperature: Store your almond cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and chewy, ready for snacking! Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture. Freezer: Freeze almond cookies for up to 2 weeks. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking, and thaw at room temperature when ready to eat. Reheating: If you want to refresh your almond cookies, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will restore their delightful warmth and chewy texture! Almond Cookies: Endless Possibilities Feel free to personalize these delightful cookies with your own special twist; your taste buds will thank you! Citrus Burst: Swap almond extract with orange or lemon extract for a refreshing zing. Chocolate Delight: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks into the dough for a decadent flavor combination that’s sure to impress. Dried Fruit Surprise: Add raisins or chopped dried apricots to the dough for a chewy sweetness that perfectly complements the almond. Nutty Variety: Mix in chopped hazelnuts or walnuts alongside the sliced almonds for an exciting texture and unexpected nutty flavor. Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour, ensuring everyone can enjoy these lovely cookies. Decadent Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark chocolate on top of the cookies for an extra indulgent treat. Spicy Twist: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom into the dough for a warm and fragrant kick. Snack Pairing: Serve with a side of freshly brewed coffee or tea; each cookie becomes even more delightful when enjoyed with your favorite beverage. If you’re in the mood for more essential recipes, consider trying my delightful German Chocolate Cookies or the sweet and tangy Lemon Sugar Cookies. Each offers its own unique flavors and textures! What to Serve with Chewy Almond Cookies with Frangipane Centers Nothing quite complements the sweet yet nutty delight of these cookies like a thoughtful pairing that enhances their rich flavors. Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavors cut through the sweetness, making each bite sensational while elevating your coffee break. Milk: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balance, perfect for soaking up the chewy texture of the cookies. Fruit Salad: Fresh, vibrant fruit adds a refreshing contrast, brightening up the rich almond flavors for a delightful experience. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that brings comfort in every creamy bite. Sweet Dessert Wines: Pair with a light, sweet dessert wine, like Moscato, to enhance the almond flavor and create a sophisticated treat. Tea: A cup of herbal or green tea works wonders; its soothing notes bring out the cookie’s nutty undertones without overpowering them. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling melted chocolate on top adds elegance and indulgence, pairing beautifully with the chewy texture and rich flavor of the cookies. Candied Citrus Peel: The zesty sweetness pairs harmoniously, adding a sophisticated touch that complements the almond flavor beautifully. Expert Tips for Almond Cookies Measure Precise Flour: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping directly; this prevents overly dry cookies and ensures perfect consistency. Optimal Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; remove them when they’re light golden, so they maintain that chewy texture everyone loves in almond cookies. Indents Technique: Make sure to create well-defined indentations before adding frangipane; this keeps the filling secure and prevents overflow while baking. Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with a splash of orange or lemon extract to brighten your almond cookies; it adds a refreshing twist without overshadowing the almond flavor. Storage Strategy: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to three days, or freeze them for up to two weeks to lock in freshness and flavor delight. Almond Cookies Recipe FAQs How can I tell if my almonds are fresh? Look for almonds with a shiny, light-colored skin. If they have dark spots all over or an off-putting smell, they may be old. Always opt for fresh almonds for the best flavor in your almond cookies. How should I store leftover almond cookies? Store your almond cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extra freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week; just be sure to allow them to come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture. Can I freeze my almond cookies? Absolutely! To freeze, layer your almond cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. What should I do if my almond cookie dough is too sticky? If the dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help it firm up, making it easier to handle. If it’s still too sticky after chilling, consider adding a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Can I make these almond cookies vegan? Yes! To make vegan almond cookies, substitute the egg yolks with 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each yolk. Additionally, use vegan butter instead of regular unsalted butter and ensure your almond extract is vegan-friendly. Enjoy your delightful treats guilt-free! Are these almond cookies safe for pets? Most ingredients used in almond cookies are not safe for pets. Avoid giving cookies that contain sugar, butter, and almond extract to dogs or cats, as these can be harmful to their health. Always keep your baked goods away from your furry friends. Almond Cookies That Bring Joy with Chewy Frangipane Centers Delightful almond cookies featuring a chewy frangipane center, perfect for sharing and impressing. Easy to make and luxurious in taste. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 13 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 48 minutes mins Servings: 18 cookiesCourse: CookiesCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough1 cup Unsalted Butter (melted) Substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.3/4 cup Granulated Sugar Can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.1/4 cup Brown Sugar Use light or dark brown sugar interchangeably.2 large Egg Yolks Can be replaced with 1 tbsp of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water for a vegan alternative.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.1 teaspoon Almond Extract Substitute with a few drops of vanilla extract for a less pronounced almond taste.1 cup Ground Almonds Almond flour may be used for a finer texture.1 cup All-purpose Flour For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour.1 teaspoon Baking Powder1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda1/4 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.For the Frangipane Center1 cup Ground Almonds Make sure to use fresh almonds for the best taste.3/4 cup Powdered Sugar Essential for achieving that lovely creaminess in the center.For Topping & Serving1/2 cup Sliced Almonds Chopped nuts can be used as a substitute.Powdered Sugar for dusting Optional but adds a beautiful finish. Equipment mixing bowlElectric mixercookie scoopParchment paperWire rack Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPrepare Frangipane: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in the ground almonds, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt, then set aside.Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until evenly mixed and set aside.Cream Butter & Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.Incorporate Egg Yolks & Extracts: Add egg yolks, vanilla extract, and almond extract to creamed mixture. Mix until blended and fluffy.Combine Mixtures: Gradually add dry ingredients and ground almonds to wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.Form Dough: Portion out about 18 balls of dough using a cookie scoop. Roll between palms and create an indent. Spoon frangipane into center and top with sliced almonds.Bake: Place cookies on parchment-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 13½ minutes until light golden.Cooling & Serving: Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 75mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 150IUCalcium: 25mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor best results, follow the measuring tips and optimal baking time. Use an airtight container for storage to maintain freshness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
