Almond Cookies with Candied Orange Peel

Almond cookies with candied orange peel are a delightful treat that beautifully marries the rich, nutty flavor of almonds with the vibrant zest of orange. This recipe creates a batch of soft, chewy cookies that are perfect for snacking, entertaining, or gifting. The addition of candied orange peel elevates the cookies, adding both sweetness and a refreshing citrus aroma that makes them irresistible.

Ingredients

To make almond cookies with candied orange peel, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 1 cup of almond flour: The base for your cookies, providing a rich almond flavor.
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour: To provide structure.
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter: Softened, for richness.
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar: For sweetness.
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar: Lightly packed, for moisture and depth.
• 1 large egg: To bind the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: For added aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder: To help the cookies rise.
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt: To balance the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup of chopped candied orange peel: For bursts of citrus flavor.
• 1/2 cup of whole almonds: For added texture and garnish.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps create a tender cookie.

2. Add the Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

4. Fold in Candied Orange Peel: Gently fold in the chopped candied orange peel and whole almonds to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. Chill: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Scoop the Dough: Once the dough has chilled, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space the cookies about 2 inches apart.

3. Flatten Slightly: Use the palm of your hand to gently flatten each cookie slightly.

4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear slightly underbaked, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.

5. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: For an elegant touch, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
• Pair with Tea or Coffee: These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or dessert.
• Gift Presentation: Package them in decorative boxes or jars for a delightful homemade gift.

Almond cookies with candied orange peel offer a delightful combination of nutty flavors and citrus zest. While the original recipe is wonderful on its own, there are many ways to enhance and customize your cookies. Here are some tips, variations, and additional insights to elevate your baking experience.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

1. Almond Flour vs. Almond Meal: For the best texture, use finely ground almond flour instead of almond meal, which can be coarser. Almond flour produces a smoother cookie and helps maintain a soft, chewy consistency.

2. Freshly Candied Orange Peel: If you have time, consider making your own candied orange peel. This process allows you to control the sweetness and flavor intensity. Simply simmer strips of orange peel in sugar syrup until tender, then let them dry before using them in the cookie dough.

3. High-Quality Almonds: For a richer almond flavor, use high-quality whole almonds that are lightly toasted before grinding them. Toasting enhances the nutty aroma and flavor, resulting in a more flavorful cookie.

Flavor Variations

1. Spice It Up: To add depth, consider incorporating warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the cookie dough. A pinch of cardamom can also introduce an exotic flair that complements the almond and orange flavors.

2. Alternative Citrus Zests: While orange is delicious, you can experiment with other citrus fruits as well. Adding lemon or grapefruit zest will give your cookies a refreshing twist, brightening the overall flavor.

3. Chocolate Chips: For chocolate lovers, consider folding in some dark or white chocolate chips along with the candied orange peel. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the almond and citrus flavors.

Texture Tips

1. Chilling the Dough: For a better texture, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

2. Baking Sheets: Use parchment paper on your baking sheets to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. If you want crispier edges, consider using a silicone baking mat.

Serving Suggestions

1. Presentation: Serve your almond cookies on a decorative platter or in a glass jar. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a beautiful finishing touch.

2. Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, making them an excellent choice for afternoon snacks or dessert. You can also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.

Storage Tips

To keep your almond cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to maintain their softness, consider placing a slice of bread in the container; it helps retain moisture. For longer storage, these cookies freeze well. Simply layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months.

Conclusion

Almond cookies with candied orange peel are a delightful treat that combines the nutty richness of almonds with the bright, refreshing taste of citrus. These cookies are easy to make and can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a dessert spread. With their lovely texture and flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.