Almond fingers, those delicate and delicious cookies, have a special place in many hearts. With their crisp texture, nutty aroma, and delightful sweetness, they are the perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or just starting, this recipe will guide you through each step to create irresistible almond fingers right in your own kitchen.
Unlocking the Secrets of Perfect Almond Fingers
Many believe almond fingers are complicated to bake, but that’s simply not true! With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be surprised how simple it is to achieve bakery-quality results.
What makes this recipe special?
- Simple ingredients: We’re using pantry staples to ensure everyone can enjoy these delightful treats.
- Detailed instructions: Each step is broken down to guarantee success, even for novice bakers.
- Expert tips and tricks: Learn from our experienced bakers and elevate your almond fingers from good to extraordinary.
Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Delicious Almond Fingers
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, for topping
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Wire rack
Step-by-Step Baking Guide
1. Preparing the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is best done using an electric mixer, but you can also use a whisk for a good arm workout!
- Beat in the almond extract until well combined. The aroma alone will get you excited for the final product.
2. Incorporating Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed, preventing any overly salty bites.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
3. Shaping and Baking:
- Divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide.
- Place the logs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each log slightly with your hand.
- Brush the tops of the logs with water and arrange the sliced almonds in a single layer, pressing gently to help them adhere.
4. Baking to Perfection:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Creating the Glaze:
- While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, and almond extract until smooth.
- Gradually add more milk, if needed, to reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be thin enough to drizzle but not too watery.
6. The Finishing Touch:
- Once the cookies are completely cool, cut them diagonally into 1-inch slices.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.
Tips for Almond Finger Success:
- Room Temperature Butter is Key: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for optimal creaminess, resulting in airy cookies.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Uniform Size Matters: Try to keep the cookie logs as uniform as possible to ensure even baking.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cookies to cool completely before glazing to prevent it from melting and creating a messy look.
FAQs About Almond Fingers:
Q: Can I use a different type of nut for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While almonds are traditional, feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans, walnuts, or pistachios for a unique twist. Just make sure to toast them lightly for enhanced flavor.
Q: How do I store almond fingers?
A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before shaping and baking.
Almond Fingers: A Treat to Savor and Share
There you have it – a simple yet rewarding recipe for incredibly delicious almond fingers. The combination of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies and sweet almond glaze is simply irresistible. Share them with your loved ones, or enjoy them all by yourself – we won’t judge!
Almond Fingers Cooling on Rack
Ingredients for Almond Fingers
We hope you enjoy baking and indulging in these crunchy, sweet treats. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below! If you’re looking for more delightful baking adventures, check out our recipes for Battenberg cake or Bee Sting cake. Happy baking!
