Almond Fingers are a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of almonds with a crisp buttery texture. These elegant cookies have been a favorite in many cultures, often enjoyed during festive occasions or as a sophisticated snack with tea or coffee. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them a timeless classic in the world of baked goods.
We love how easy it is to whip up a batch of Almond Fingers at home, using just a handful of ingredients. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of almonds while keeping the cookies light and crunchy. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just craving something sweet, Almond Fingers offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
To create perfect Almond Fingers with that signature crispness and rich almond flavor, we rely on a balanced selection of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the ideal texture and taste.
Dry Ingredients
We start by gathering all the dry ingredients carefully measured for precision:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for a tender crumb)
- ½ cup almond flour (boosts almond flavor and adds texture)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar (adds delicate sweetness and fine texture)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder (for subtle lift)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (enhances all flavors)
| Dry Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 ½ cups | Base structure |
| Almond flour | ½ cup | Almond flavor, texture |
| Powdered sugar | ¾ cup | Sweetness, smooth texture |
| Baking powder | ½ teaspoon | Lightness |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | Flavor enhancer |
Wet Ingredients
For the wet ingredients, we emphasize richness and moisture to complement the dry mix perfectly:
- 1 large egg (binds and adds richness)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (provides buttery flavor and crisp texture)
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (intensifies almond aroma)
Optional Toppings
To elevate our Almond Fingers, consider these tasteful add-ons:
- Sliced almonds (adds crunch and visual appeal)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (adds subtle sweetness and elegance)
- A light drizzle of melted white chocolate (for a touch of decadence)
These toppings are not necessary but offer delightful variations to suit various tastes and occasions.
Equipment Needed
To craft our crisp and flavorful Almond Fingers perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool plays a critical role in achieving the ideal texture and presentation. Here’s a detailed list to prepare our workspace efficiently:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | For combining wet and dry ingredients separately for uniform blending |
| Electric Mixer or Whisk | To cream butter and sugar smoothly and incorporate the egg and almond extract efficiently |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | To ensure precise ingredient quantities for consistent cookie texture |
| Spatula | For folding in dry ingredients gently to preserve the lightness of the dough |
| Rolling Pin | To roll out the cookie dough evenly to the right thickness for crisp baking |
| Sharp Knife or Cookie Cutter | To shape the dough into uniform almond finger shapes ensuring even baking |
| Baking Sheet | To place shaped dough fingers for baking on a flat, heat-safe surface |
| Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat | To prevent sticking and enable even heat distribution for crisp edges |
| Cooling Rack | To let the Almond Fingers cool evenly preserving their delicate crispness |
Quotes that remind us of the importance:
“The right equipment turns a good recipe into a great one.”
Using these tools will make our almond fingers recipe execution smooth and help us produce cookies with that perfect crunch and rich almond flavor every time.
Prep Work
Before we dive into baking our Almond Fingers, thorough Prep Work is essential to ensure a smooth and successful process. Taking these preliminary steps sets the foundation for perfectly crisp and flavorful cookies.
Preparing the Dough
To prepare the dough for our Almond Fingers, we start by softening the unsalted butter to room temperature. This creates a creamy base that blends seamlessly with the other ingredients.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add one large egg and almond extract to the creamed mixture. Beat again until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix ensures an even distribution and prevents lumps.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, gently folding with a spatula until a smooth dough forms. Avoid over-mixing to maintain a tender crumb.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling firms the dough making it easier to roll out and cut.
Tip: Chilled dough improves the crispness of our Almond Fingers, giving them that signature delicate crunch.
Preheating the Oven
While the dough chills, we prepare the oven to the perfect baking temperature to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
- Position the oven rack in the middle to allow proper airflow around the cookies.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Baking Surface | Parchment or silicone mat |
| Rack Position | Center |
This preparation guarantees our Almond Fingers will bake uniformly, achieving that inviting golden color and crispy texture we aim for.
Directions
Follow these clear steps to shape, bake, and cool the Almond Fingers perfectly. Precision at each stage ensures the ideal crisp texture and rich almond flavor.
Shaping the Almond Fingers
- Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Place it on a lightly floured surface.
- Roll the dough out evenly to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm) using a rolling pin.
- Using a sharp knife or a rectangular cookie cutter, cut the dough into long thin strips approximately 3 inches (7.5 cm) long and 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) wide.
- If desired, gently press sliced almonds on top of each strip for added texture and visual appeal.
- Transfer the shaped fingers carefully onto a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, spacing them about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
Baking Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) before starting. Bake the almond fingers using these precise guidelines:
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F (175°C) | — | Ensure oven reaches temperature before baking |
| Bake almond fingers | 350°F (175°C) | 12-15 minutes | Bake until edges turn a light golden brown |
| Rotate baking sheet | — | Halfway through | For even baking and browning |
- Place the baking sheet in the center of the oven.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, watching closely after 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.
- Look for a light golden color around the edges and a firm texture indicating crispness.
Cooling and Setting
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven with oven mitts.
- Allow the almond fingers to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This lets them set slightly, preventing breakage.
- Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely, about 15-20 minutes.
- Once fully cooled, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle melted white chocolate if desired for a final touch.
“Patience during cooling ensures the perfect snap and crunch that define our Almond Fingers.”
By carefully shaping, baking, and cooling the cookies, we guarantee a consistently crisp and flavorful almond treat every time.
Storage Tips
To keep our Almond Fingers fresh and crisp, proper storage is essential. Follow these guidelines to maintain their delightful texture and rich almond flavor.
Cooling Completely Before Storing
We always let the Almond Fingers cool completely on a wire rack before placing them in any container. Storing while warm traps moisture causing sogginess and loss of crunch.
Airtight Container Use
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents air exposure which can make the cookies stale.
Layering for Protection
When placing Almond Fingers inside the container, we layer them between sheets of parchment paper to avoid sticking or breaking.
Optimal Storage Duration
Almond Fingers stay at their best within 5 to 7 days at room temperature. After this period, their texture may start to soften.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Airtight Container | 5 to 7 days | Keeps crispness and flavor intact |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe bags or containers |
Freezing for Longer Storage
For extended storage, we freeze the Almond Fingers. Wrap them individually or in layers with parchment paper inside freezer-safe containers or bags. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving.
Avoid Humidity and Heat
We store Almond Fingers away from heat sources and humid environments as these conditions accelerate softening and spoilage.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Almond Fingers, we recommend pairing them with complementary flavors and serving styles that highlight their crisp texture and rich almond taste.
Perfect Beverage Pairings
Our Almond Fingers elevate any snack time when served alongside the right beverages. Consider these classic pairings:
| Beverage | Notes |
|---|---|
| Black Tea | Enhances the nutty flavor without overpowering |
| Coffee | The bitterness contrasts perfectly with the sweet almonds |
| Almond Milk | Reinforces the almond essence in the cookies |
| Hot Chocolate | Adds a creamy, indulgent balance |
Presentation Ideas
Presentation matters when serving Almond Fingers. Here are simple ways to make them more inviting:
- Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant look.
- Serve with a small bowl of melted white chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping.
- Layer the cookies between parchment paper inside a glass jar or tin to keep them crisp and visually appealing when presented at gatherings.
- Garnish with a few whole roasted almonds on the side to emphasize the almond theme.
Occasion-Specific Suggestions
For special occasions, we suggest:
- Tea Parties: Offer our Almond Fingers alongside finger sandwiches and floral teas for a refined experience.
- Holiday Gatherings: Use festive plates and add a cinnamon or nutmeg sprinkle to the powdered sugar topping.
- Everyday Treats: Pair the cookies with a simple glass of milk or your favorite coffee blend for daily indulgence.
“Serving our Almond Fingers with complementary beverages and elegant presentation amplifies their delightful almond flavor and crisp texture, making every bite memorable.”
By incorporating these serving suggestions, we ensure that our Almond Fingers stand out as both a treat and a centerpiece.
Conclusion
Almond Fingers bring together simplicity and elegance in every bite. With just a few quality ingredients and a bit of care, we can create a cookie that’s crisp, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or shared at a festive gathering, these cookies never fail to impress.
By following the steps carefully and storing them properly, we ensure each batch stays fresh and delightful. Almond Fingers are more than just a treat—they’re a timeless classic that adds a touch of sophistication to our baking repertoire. Let’s keep baking and sharing these almond delights with those we care about.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Almond Fingers cookies?
Almond Fingers are crisp, buttery cookies with a rich almond flavor. They are thin, crunchy treats often enjoyed during festive occasions or as a snack with tea or coffee.
What ingredients do I need to make Almond Fingers?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, almond flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, salt, a large egg, unsalted butter, and almond extract. Optional toppings include sliced almonds, powdered sugar, and melted white chocolate.
What tools are essential for baking Almond Fingers?
Key tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer or whisk, measuring cups and spoons, a spatula, rolling pin, a sharp knife or cookie cutter, baking sheet, parchment paper or silicone mat, and a cooling rack.
How do I shape Almond Fingers cookies?
After chilling the dough, roll it out evenly, cut into narrow strips, and optionally press sliced almonds on top before baking.
What is the best way to bake Almond Fingers?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes until they turn light golden brown.
How should I cool Almond Fingers after baking?
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack for 15-20 minutes to achieve the perfect crispness.
How do I store Almond Fingers to keep them fresh?
Store completely cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, layered with parchment paper. They stay fresh for 5-7 days or can be frozen up to 3 months.
Can Almond Fingers be served with drinks?
Yes, they pair well with black tea, coffee, almond milk, or hot chocolate, enhancing the almond flavor and crunch.
Are Almond Fingers suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! They make elegant treats for tea parties, holiday gatherings, or any special event, adding a refined touch to your dessert table.
Can I add toppings to Almond Fingers?
Yes, sliced almonds, powdered sugar dusting, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate are great options to enhance both flavor and appearance.