Almond Crescents are delicate, buttery cookies that melt in your mouth and are traditionally enjoyed around the holidays. Believed to have originated in Eastern Europe, particularly Austria or Germany, these cookies are shaped like crescents to resemble the Turkish crescent moon, symbolizing historical triumph. The recipe is beloved for its minimal ingredients and rich flavor, combining ground almonds, powdered sugar, and vanilla or almond extract for a comforting, nutty treat. Dusted in powdered sugar while still warm, they have a snowy, festive look that's perfect for celebrations or gifting.
Ingredients
- ½ lb butter (softened)
- ¼ lb almonds (grated )
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 34 tbsp all-purpose flour (2 cups + 2 tbsp)
- 1 tsp almond ( or vanilla extract)
- Additional powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
Step 1: Mix Ingredients
- Combine softened butter, grated almonds, powdered sugar, flour, and extract in a bowl. Mix until dough forms.
Step 2: Shape Cookies
- Shape dough into small balls or crescent shapes.
Step 3: Bake
- Place cookies on a cookie sheet and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Roll in Sugar
- While still hot, roll cookies in powdered sugar to coat.
Tips
- Use vanilla extract for a softer, more classic sugar-cookie flavor; use almond extract for a stronger nut aroma.
- Lightly toast the almonds before adding them for deeper flavor.
- Shape into balls, crescents, or shortbread-style logs.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- For extra tenderness, chill the dough for 20 minutes before shaping.
- Dust again with powdered sugar after cooling for a snowy holiday look.
- Add citrus zest (lemon or orange) for a brighter flavor.
- Substitute part of the flour with finely ground almond flour for richer nuttiness.
- Add mini chocolate chips for a twist.
- Roll in cinnamon-sugar instead of powdered sugar for a different finish.
Nutrition
Calories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 7.8gProtein: 1.2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2.9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 1mgPotassium: 18mgFiber: 0.4gSugar: 2.8gVitamin A: 95IUCalcium: 7mgIron: 0.4mg
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