Creating Almond Paste Cookies, known as Christmas German Almond Horns, fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting scents of the holidays. This recipe captures that essence, bringing together delightful flavors and textures that your loved ones will adore. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that’s not too sweet but full of rich almond flavor—sounds delicious, right? These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. Plus, they make a lovely gift, beautifully wrapped for friends and family.
Let’s embark on a fun baking journey together. You’ll find that every step is as enjoyable as the final cookie itself. With just a few key ingredients and straightforward techniques, you’ll have a batch of these charming cookies in no time. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and start making these Almond Paste Cookies (Christmas German Almond Horns) that will make your holiday season even brighter!
Why This Recipe Works
Creating the perfect Almond Paste Cookies, or Christmas German Almond Horns, involves a delicate balance of flavors and textures. This recipe leverages the moisture of almond paste to keep the cookies dense and chewy. Additionally, the combination of almond flour and powdered sugar ensures sweetness without overwhelming the natural almond flavor. Baking at a precise temperature allows the cookie edges to warm and hold their shape, resulting in the signature crescent form.
The result? Delicious cookies that are both lovely in presentation and bursting with flavor, making them a standout addition to your holiday cookie tray.
Why You’ll Love This Almond Paste Cookies (Christmas German Almond Horns)
These cookies are not just a treat; they embody the warmth of holiday gatherings with their delightful aroma and rich flavor. They’re perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply indulging yourself. Almond Horns find their way to the center of any festive occasion. They are also naturally gluten-free, providing paleo and vegan alternatives, which can include most dietary preferences.
Picture the joy on your family’s faces as they enjoy these simple yet elegant cookies together. You’ll love how these delightfully chewy cookies bring everyone together around the table.
Ingredients for Almond Paste Cookies (Christmas German Almond Horns)
- 7 ounces (198 grams) almond paste, homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup (100 grams) finely ground blanched almond flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup (100 grams) powdered sugar
- 1 large egg white
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (100 grams) sliced almonds
- 2/3 cup (113 grams) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped and melted
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a festive batch of cookies.
Preparation Steps
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because the cookies will bake evenly. Don’t forget to line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step prevents the cookies from sticking and promotes even baking, ensuring each cookie turns out just right!
Prepare the Dough Using a Food Processor
If you’re using a food processor, break the almond paste into 2-inch chunks and place them in the bowl. Add the almond flour, vanilla extract, almond extract, powdered sugar, egg white, and salt. Pulse the ingredients until the mixture forms a sticky, workable dough. It’s so satisfying to see the transformation!
Prepare the Dough by Hand
For those who prefer a hand-mixed approach, break the almond paste into 2-inch chunks and put them in a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining ingredients and mix thoroughly using a hand mixer or your hands until everything comes together. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough is sticky and holds together well.
Shape the Cookies
In a small bowl, place the sliced almonds. Start by rolling the dough into 1.5-inch balls and then shape them into little logs. Brush the tops with beaten egg white to help the almonds stick, and then dip each log into the sliced almonds, ensuring they are well-coated. This is where they get their adorable, crunchy topping!
Form the Crescents
Gently shape each coated log into a crescent shape. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet; remember, they will puff a bit as they bake. This spacing allows each cookie to maintain its shape without sticking together.
Bake the Cookies
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the cookies in the oven and bake them for about 14-15 minutes, or until they are lightly browned. Once they turn golden, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. The aroma wafting through your home during this time will be incredible!
Cool and Coat with Chocolate
After a few minutes, transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely. In a small bowl, combine the melted chocolate and coconut oil. Once the cookies have cooled, dip the ends into the chocolate mixture and place them back on the parchment-lined sheet. For speedy hardening, refrigerate them for about 30 minutes. This step adds a lovely finishing touch and makes the cookies even more irresistible.
Storage Tips
Once the chocolate has hardened, store your Almond Paste Cookies in an airtight container. They can last for up to 2-3 weeks, giving you plenty of time to enjoy them. If you want to save some for later, they can also be frozen for several months. Just ensure they are well wrapped to maintain freshness.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful cookies shine when served alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea during holiday gatherings. They also make a beautiful addition to cookie gift boxes, showing that you put thought and love into your gifts. Your friends will undoubtedly appreciate receiving such lovely homemade treats.
Tips for Success
- Make sure your almond paste is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- If you want a vegan option, replace the egg white with aquafaba or flaxseed meal.
- Be mindful during baking; oven variations can lead to differing results. Check the cookies a couple of minutes before the end time to ensure perfection.
Variations
Want to add a twist? You can incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a hint of spice. For even more sweetness, consider drizzling melted white chocolate on top or experimenting with different nuts like pistachios or hazelnuts for the coating. The options are endless!
FAQs
1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses almond flour instead of wheat flour.
2. How long do the cookies stay fresh?
These cookies stay fresh for up to 2-3 weeks in an airtight container.
3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze them for several months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped!
4. What can I use instead of almond extract?
If you don’t have almond extract, additional vanilla extract can work for a different flavor profile.
5. How do I store leftover chocolate?
Store leftover chocolate in a cool, dry place, and reheat gently to reuse for drizzling or dipping.
These Almond Paste Cookies, or Christmas German Almond Horns, radiate holiday cheer with their chewy texture and rich flavors. They make it impossible to resist. Whether enjoyed fresh or saved for later, they encapsulate the spirit of the season. Your friends and family will be enchanted by these treats, and they’ll thank you for sharing such a delightful recipe!
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Almond Paste Cookies
These delightful cookies provide a chewy texture with rich almond flavor, ideal for holiday gatherings or as gifts. They’re naturally gluten-free and easy to make.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 7 ounces (198 grams) almond paste, homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup (100 grams) finely ground blanched almond flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup (100 grams) powdered sugar
- 1 large egg white
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (100 grams) sliced almonds
- 2/3 cup (113 grams) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped and melted
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor or by hand, mix almond paste with other ingredients to form a sticky dough.
- Roll dough into 1.5-inch balls, shape into logs, brush with egg white, and coat in sliced almonds.
- Shape the logs into crescents and place on the baking sheet, spaced apart.
- Bake for 14-15 minutes until lightly browned, then cool on a rack.
- Dip cookie ends in melted chocolate and refrigerate to harden.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Ensure almond paste is at room temperature for easier mixing.
For a vegan option, substitute egg white with aquafaba or flaxseed meal.
Check cookies a few minutes before the recommended baking time for doneness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 30
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 11
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 5
