TODAY we celebrate a traditional cookie favorite, the Chinese Almond cookie.

Chinese almond cookies are a traditional Chinese pastry that originated in southern China and are now popular in Chinese-American cuisine. These cookies are typically round and flat, with a crumbly texture and a slightly sweet almond flavor. The cookies are often topped with a single sliced almond or a sprinkling of sesame seeds.

The dough for Chinese almond cookies is made from flour, sugar, butter, or lard, and ground almonds or almond extract. The dough is rolled into small balls and flattened slightly, then topped with sliced almond or sesame seeds. The cookies are then baked until they are golden brown and crispy.

Chinese almond cookies are often served during holidays and special occasions, such as Chinese New Year, weddings, and birthdays. They are a popular treat to share with friends and family and are often served alongside tea or other beverages.

Some Chinese almond cookie recipes may also include additional ingredients such as egg, baking powder, or salt, depending on the specific recipe. But regardless of the recipe, Chinese almond cookies are a delicious and traditional Chinese pastry that is beloved by many.

Here’s a simple recipe for Chinese almond cookies:

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the almond extract and mix until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until the dough comes together.
6. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Gently press down on each cookie with the back of a fork or the palm of your hand to flatten it slightly.
8. Place a few sliced almonds on top of each cookie, pressing them down lightly to help them adhere.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden brown on the edges.
10. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Chinese almond cookies!