How to Make Almond Tiles: A Simple Guide to Elegant Cookies

Almond tiles, or tuiles, are delicate, crispy cookies that are as beautiful as they are delicious. These thin, lacey treats are surprisingly easy to make with just a few basic ingredients and add a touch of elegance to any dessert platter. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this guide will walk you through every step, ensuring perfect almond tiles every time.

The Allure of Almond Tiles

Originating in France, almond tiles get their name from their resemblance to the curved tiles found on rooftops. These cookies are traditionally served with ice cream, mousse, or fresh fruit, but their buttery, nutty flavor shines even on their own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds

Ingredient Substitutions and Tips

• Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for optimal creaminess.
• Almond Extract: For a more intense almond flavor, you can add a few drops of bitter almond extract alongside the regular extract.
• Almonds: While sliced almonds are traditional, feel free to experiment with different types of almonds, like slivered or chopped. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Let’s Make Almond Tiles!

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Cream Together: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Flavor Boost: Stir in the almond extract until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Almond Incorporation: Gently fold in the sliced almonds, ensuring they are well-distributed throughout the dough.

Shaping Your Tiles

1. Spoonful Drops: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2-3 inches of space between each cookie.
2. Spreading the Dough: Dip a spoon or your fingers in water and gently spread each cookie into a thin, 3-inch circle. Don’t worry if the edges are a little uneven, it adds to their charm.

Baking to Perfection

1. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly.
2. Cool and Shape: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a minute or two. While they’re still warm and pliable, you can shape them.

Shaping Options

1. Classic Curve: Carefully drape each warm cookie over a rolling pin or the side of a tall glass to create a classic curved tile shape.
2. Freeform Designs: For a more rustic look, let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet. They will harden into unique, freeform shapes.

Tips for Success

• Even Spacing: Ensure that your cookies are evenly spaced on the baking sheet to allow for proper airflow and even browning.
• Watch the Edges: Keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake, as they can go from golden brown to burnt very quickly.
• Shaping While Warm: Almond tiles harden quickly as they cool, so it’s important to shape them immediately after removing them from the oven.