Name: Almond Crescent Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup finely ground almonds or almond meal; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Extra powdered sugar for dusting

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There’s something truly magical about Almond Crescent Cookies: delicate, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats with the gentle nuttiness of almonds, blanketed in a flurry of powdered sugar. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special gathering, or a cozy weekend, these cookies never fail to win hearts (and cravings). They’re effortless, elegant, and just a little bit nostalgic—one of those recipes you’ll find yourself reaching for year after year.

Almond Crescent Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Almond Crescent Cookies lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient brings something special—whether buttery richness, light sweetness, or irresistible flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need, and a peek at why they matter.

Unsalted butter, softened: The base of these cookies, providing that creamy, melt-away texture and flavor.
Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness without grittiness, giving both the dough and the finished cookies a soft, snowy finish.
Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon brings warm, aromatic undertones that shine alongside the almonds.
All-purpose flour: The structure of the cookie—just the right amount for tender crescents that hold their shape.
Finely ground almonds or almond meal: These are the heart of the cookies, adding nutty depth and a delicate crumb.
Salt: A pinch brings everything into balance, letting each flavor stand out.
Extra powdered sugar, for dusting: The crowning touch—those sweet, powdery clouds that make a cookie instantly inviting.

How to Make Almond Crescent Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Getting the temperature and prep right is half the secret to perfectly baked Almond Crescent Cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Don’t skimp on this step—it’s what gives the cookies their ethereal texture. Once combined, beat in the vanilla extract for that extra whiff of sweetness.

Step 3: Build the Dough

Gradually add the all-purpose flour, finely ground almonds, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until a soft, cohesive dough forms. If you’re tempted to taste, you’ll understand why this almond-packed dough is so beloved—even before baking!

Step 4: Shape Into Crescents

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough for each cookie. Roll gently between your palms, then shape each piece into a delicate crescent. Space the cookies about an inch apart on your baking sheet so they can bake evenly and retain their shape.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, keeping a close eye—what you want is lightly golden bottoms and pale tops. This balance is crucial for the tender texture that makes Almond Crescent Cookies irresistible. They’ll smell divine as they emerge from the oven!

Step 6: Sugar Coating

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While they’re still warm, gently roll each crescent in powdered sugar. This first coat melts slightly, clinging to the cookies. Once fully cooled, dust with a final snow of powdered sugar before serving for that classic, dreamy look.

How to Serve Almond Crescent Cookies

Garnishes

Almond Crescent Cookies are at their prettiest with a final dusting of powdered sugar, but you can also sprinkle a little extra ground almond over the top, or add slivered almonds for a hint of crunch and a lovely visual accent.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a good cup of coffee, spiced tea, or a delicate dessert wine. They also play well with other classic treats—think a platter of shortbreads, rugelach, or chocolate-dipped biscotti for a holiday spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Almond Crescent Cookies in a vintage tin lined with parchment for a festive edible gift. For parties, stack them on a cake stand dusted with powdered sugar, or arrange in concentric circles on a serving tray alongside fresh berries for a pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep Almond Crescent Cookies at their tender best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. A single layer with a parchment paper divider helps preserve their delicate shape and prevents them from fusing together under their sugary cloak.

Freezing

If you’d like to get a head start on your holiday baking, these cookies freeze wonderfully. Arrange cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months—just thaw and dust with a touch more powdered sugar before enjoying.

Reheating

Almond Crescent Cookies are delightful at room temperature, but if you want to refresh them, pop the cookies in a low oven (about 300°F, or 150°C) for 5 minutes. Allow them to cool slightly, then dust with a little extra powdered sugar for the freshest flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Absolutely! Ground walnuts or hazelnuts are delicious alternatives—each brings its own unique flavor to the buttery cookie base, so feel free to experiment, especially if you’re baking for friends with almond allergies.

How do I get perfectly uniform crescents?

Use a level tablespoon of dough for every cookie, and roll gently between your palms before curving into a crescent. Don’t worry too much about perfection—part of their charm is a little handmade uniqueness!

Why do my cookies fall apart?

Almond Crescent Cookies are naturally delicate, but if they’re too crumbly, the dough may be too dry. Make sure to measure your flour carefully and try not to overbake—you want just golden bottoms, not browned tops.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure it’s a 1:1 replacement and hasn’t got any strong flavors that might overpower the almonds.

What’s the best way to gift Almond Crescent Cookies?

Layer the cookies in a pretty box or tin, cushioning them with parchment paper. Add a handwritten note or a little sprig of rosemary or dried lavender for that extra-special homemade touch.

Final Thoughts

These Almond Crescent Cookies are pure joy—simple to make, yet sophisticated enough for any occasion. If you’ve never tried them before, there’s no better time. Each bite is a lovely little reminder of how something so humble can become an instant classic. Bake a batch, share with friends, and prepare for compliments!

Almond Crescent Cookies Recipe

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4.9 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Almond Crescent Cookies are delicate, buttery, and nutty treats perfect for any occasion. With a light dusting of powdered sugar, they make a beautiful addition to your holiday cookie platter.

Ingredients

Scale

For the cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup finely ground almonds or almond meal
1/4 teaspoon salt
Extra powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract.
Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour, ground almonds, and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Shape and bake: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and shape it into a crescent. Place the crescents on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden on the bottom.
Dust with sugar: Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then roll them in powdered sugar while warm. Dust with additional powdered sugar when completely cooled.