Almond Crescent Cookies

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These Almond Crescent Cookies are the kind of treat that instantly transports you to a cozy winter afternoon. Buttery, tender, and coated with snowy powdered sugar, they melt in your mouth with a delicate nutty flavor that feels like pure comfort. They’re a timeless holiday classic, but honestly? They’re too good not to enjoy year-round.

Whether you’re planning a cookie exchange, filling a festive platter, or just craving something that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea, these cookies are here for you. The crescent shape gives them a charming, old-world feel, and the almond essence is both subtle and satisfying.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get started with these lovely cookies, you’ll want to gather a few kitchen essentials that will make the process smooth and enjoyable:

• Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large bowls to separate dry and wet ingredients. Keeping things tidy helps ensure even mixing.
• Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: Creaming the butter and sugar to the right consistency is key for the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. A mixer will do this efficiently.
• Baking Sheet: A sturdy, rimmed baking sheet ensures even heat distribution and prevents the cookies from burning or spreading too much.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and promotes even baking, making cleanup easier.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision matters for this kind of delicate dough.
• Cooling Rack: Helps cool the cookies evenly while keeping their shape and texture intact.

These tools not only simplify your work but help achieve bakery-level results from the comfort of home.

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Ingredients for the Almond Crescent Cookies

Each ingredient plays a special role in building the cookie’s signature texture and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Unsalted Butter: Creates the rich, tender base. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Powdered Sugar: Gives the cookies their delicate sweetness and smooth texture, both in the dough and as a finishing touch.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
• Almond Extract: This is the star flavor, giving that signature almond aroma and taste.
• All-Purpose Flour: The structure builder. Keeps the cookies from being too soft.
• Finely Ground Almonds: Boosts the almond flavor and adds a bit of texture to every bite.
• Pinch of Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the almond notes.

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How To Make the Almond Crescent Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a hand or stand mixer, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key for a delicate crumb.

Step 2: Add Flavor

Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts. These bring the cozy, nutty character to the dough.

Step 3: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Add the flour, ground almonds, and a pinch of salt. Mix on low speed or stir by hand until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix!

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up, making it easier to shape.

Step 5: Shape the Crescents

Take small portions of dough and roll them into logs, then gently curve them into crescent shapes. Place on a lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until the bottoms are just lightly golden. They should still be pale on top.

Step 7: Dust with Sugar

While still slightly warm, gently roll or sift powdered sugar over the cookies. Let them cool fully on a wire rack.

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How to Serve and Store Almond Crescent Cookies

These cookies shine brightest when served with warm drinks—think a cozy mug of coffee, a spiced chai, or a glass of milk. Their delicate, crumbly texture and powdered sugar finish make them perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet bite after dinner. For special occasions, place them on a platter with fresh berries or a few sprigs of rosemary for a festive touch.

To store, place completely cooled cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them (without the sugar coating) for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, let them thaw and dust with powdered sugar.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the cookies from crumbling?

Make sure you chill the dough and handle it gently when shaping. These cookies are meant to be tender but should hold together well after baking.

Can I use almond flour instead of ground almonds?

Yes! Almond flour is a great substitute and will actually give a slightly finer texture. Just ensure it’s blanched and finely ground.

Do these cookies spread while baking?

Very little. Since there are no leavening agents, they retain their crescent shape well.

Can I add other flavors?

Absolutely. A dash of cinnamon or even orange zest can add a twist without overpowering the almond.

How do I make them gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Be sure it contains xanthan gum for best results.

Are these cookies good for gifting?

Yes! They package beautifully in tins or clear bags with a festive ribbon. Just be sure to layer them gently to avoid breakage.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Almond Crescent Cookies, you’ll definitely want to explore more irresistible cookie creations from Life With Olivia:

• Whipped Shortbread Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth buttery classic.
• Lemon Churro Cookies if you’re craving something bright and cinnamon-sweet.
• Brownie Mix Cookies for chocolate lovers who want a quick fix.
• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes when you want your cookies to double as dessert.
• Coconut Snowballs to keep the snow-dusted magic going.

And if you’re hungry for daily dessert inspiration, be sure to follow along on my Pinterest where I post all my latest recipes: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toast the almonds? Try a citrus twist? I’d love to hear your take.

Questions are always welcome too—let’s share tips and bake even better together.

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