Name: Almond Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 1 h 20 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 1 h 29 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 225 g unsalted butter, softened (1 cup / 2 sticks); 1 cup caster sugar or white granulated sugar (200 g / 7 oz); 1 large egg, room temperature; 2 teaspoons almond extract; 325 g plain flour (all-purpose flour) (2 ½ cups); ¼ teaspoon baking powder; Flaked almonds, for decorating; 2 cups icing sugar (powdered sugar) (260 g / 9 ¼ oz); 2-2½ tablespoons water; ½ teaspoon almond extract; 2 teaspoons meringue powder (optional)

Why You’ll Love Almond Sugar Cookies Recipe

These cookies have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a rich buttery taste and subtle nutty flavor. They’re easy to prepare, freeze well, and look beautiful with their simple almond icing. Whether you’re making them for a cookie tray or a cozy afternoon snack, they’re guaranteed to be a favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

225 g unsalted butter, softened
1 cup caster sugar or granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons almond extract
325 g plain flour or all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon baking powder
Flaked almonds, for decorating

For the royal icing:

2 cups icing sugar or powdered sugar
2 to 2½ tablespoons water
½ teaspoon almond extract
2 teaspoons meringue powder, optional

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Add the egg and almond extract, mixing until combined.

Add the flour and baking powder. Mix gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.

Divide the dough into two portions and flatten each into a disk.

Roll one portion of dough between two sheets of parchment paper until about ¼ inch thick.

Chill the rolled dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Use cookie cutters to cut shapes from the chilled dough. Place the cookies about 1 inch apart on the baking sheet.

Bake for about 9 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.

To make the icing, whisk together the powdered sugar, water, almond extract, and meringue powder until smooth.

Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the icing, letting excess drip off.

Sprinkle with flaked almonds and allow the icing to set before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 48 cookies
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 9 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 29 minutes

Variations

Add a small amount of vanilla extract along with the almond extract for a softer flavor.

Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.

Use sliced pistachios instead of flaked almonds for a colorful topping.

Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a warm spice flavor.

Make sandwich cookies by filling two cookies with almond buttercream or jam.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

The cookie dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking.

Freeze unbaked dough or baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

These cookies do not require reheating, but a few seconds in the microwave can soften them slightly if desired.

FAQs

Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

No, almond flour behaves differently and would change the texture of the cookies significantly.

Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading during baking.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, both the dough and baked cookies can be prepared in advance.

What does almond extract do?

Almond extract gives the cookies their rich nutty flavor and signature aroma.

Can I skip the icing?

Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own without the glaze.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, wrap the dough tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

What type of sugar works best?

Caster sugar creates a finer texture, but regular granulated sugar also works well.

Can I decorate these cookies differently?

Absolutely. You can use sprinkles, chopped nuts, or drizzle them with chocolate.

Are these cookies good for gifting?

Yes, they store well and look beautiful packaged in cookie tins or gift boxes.

Conclusion

These almond sugar cookies are buttery, soft, and packed with sweet almond flavor. Their delicate texture and simple glaze make them a wonderful addition to holiday trays, celebrations, or everyday dessert tables. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, they’re a cookie recipe you’ll want to make again and again.