Almond Crescent Cookies

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Almond Crescent Cookies are the perfect combination of delicate texture and melt-in-your-mouth flavor. Shaped into charming crescents and generously dusted with powdered sugar, these cookies are a classic treat often seen during the holidays but delicious enough to enjoy all year round. With their buttery base and subtle almond aroma, they deliver both visual appeal and satisfying taste in every bite.

These cookies are incredibly nostalgic and comforting, evoking the warmth of a cozy kitchen filled with the sweet scent of baking. Whether served alongside a hot cup of coffee, packed into festive cookie tins, or simply enjoyed as an after-dinner treat, Almond Crescent Cookies are a timeless indulgence that pleases both young and old alike.

Why You’ll Love This Almond Crescent Cookies Recipe

• Buttery, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth
• Simple, classic ingredients with rich almond flavor
• Beautiful crescent shape makes them elegant for gifting or events
• Naturally egg-free and easily adaptable for dietary preferences
• Quick to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment)

To make Almond Crescent Cookies successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Mixing bowls: One large for the dough and a smaller one for the dry ingredients. A sturdy bowl ensures even mixing.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Helps cream the butter and sugar thoroughly for a smooth, fluffy base.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key when baking—precise measurements ensure the right texture.
• Baking sheet: A flat, non-stick surface ensures even baking and prevents cookie spread.
• Parchment paper: Keeps cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Cooling rack: Allows air to circulate around the cookies, preventing sogginess.
• Sifter or fine-mesh strainer: Essential for dusting the powdered sugar evenly over the finished cookies.

Preparation Tips

Start with room-temperature butter—it blends more easily with sugar, creating the ideal creamy texture needed for the cookie dough. Avoid overworking the dough; mix until just combined to prevent toughness. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before shaping to make it easier to handle and help the cookies hold their crescent shape while baking. When shaping the crescents, keep them uniform in size for even baking. Finally, dust the cookies with powdered sugar while they’re slightly warm, so it clings just enough without melting.

Ingredients for this Almond Crescent Cookies Recipe

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup finely ground blanched almonds (or almond flour)

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Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light, fluffy, and creamy. This step is key to achieving the delicate texture of the cookies. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed, scraping down the sides as needed.

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Step 2: Add Flavorings

Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts along with the salt. These ingredients will deepen the cookie’s flavor profile and enhance the nutty undertones from the almonds.

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Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the flour and ground almonds. Mix on low speed or by hand just until the dough starts to come together. Avoid overmixing, as this could make the cookies tough rather than tender.

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Step 4: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will firm up the butter and make the dough easier to shape while preventing spreading during baking.

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Step 5: Preheat the Oven

While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.

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Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a small log, about 2.5 inches long. Gently bend the log into a crescent shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining dough, spacing cookies about 1 inch apart.

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Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 14–16 minutes, or until the edges just start to turn golden. Do not overbake; these cookies should remain pale in color with just a hint of browning on the bottom.

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Step 8: Cool and Dust

Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack. While still slightly warm, dust generously with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh strainer or sifter. Let them cool completely before serving or storing.

Notes

These cookies improve in flavor and texture a day after baking, as the almond essence deepens and the sugar settles beautifully. For the best results, always use high-quality butter and pure almond extract to highlight the rich, nutty profile. They’re naturally egg-free, making them ideal for those with egg allergies or dietary restrictions.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the chilling step: Warm dough is harder to shape and more likely to spread.
• Overbaking: These cookies should stay pale; too much color indicates dryness.
• Using coarse almond meal: A fine grind ensures a smoother texture; avoid almond meal with skins for best results.
• Not creaming butter properly: This affects both flavor and the signature delicate crumb.
• Dusting too early or too late: Powdered sugar sticks best when cookies are warm, not hot or cold.

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Storage Instructions

Store Almond Crescent Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. Place wax paper or parchment between layers to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze them (undusted) in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Dust with powdered sugar after thawing to keep them looking fresh.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Cookie, Based on 24 Cookies Total)

• Calories: 140
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 30mg
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Sugar: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the crescents from cracking when shaping?

Let the dough warm slightly after chilling, then roll gently. Don’t press too hard while shaping the curve.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month. Let it thaw slightly before shaping.

What’s the best type of almond to use?

Blanched almonds ground into a fine meal or almond flour works best. Avoid coarse textures or almonds with skins.

Can I add other flavorings?

You can experiment with orange zest, cardamom, or cinnamon for subtle variations without overpowering the almond taste.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. This recipe doubles well—just be sure to chill in two separate portions to manage shaping easily.

How do I know they’re done baking?

The bottoms should be lightly golden, but the tops should remain pale. Overbaking makes them dry.

Do these make good holiday gifts?

Yes! They’re a festive favorite and package well in tins or cellophane bags. Just be gentle—they’re delicate!

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Conclusion

Almond Crescent Cookies offer a delightful blend of tender texture, subtle almond essence, and timeless charm. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, gifting a friend, or just indulging yourself, this recipe brings joy with every bite. Their nostalgic shape and snowy finish make them irresistible on any dessert platter.

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