If you’re craving a dessert that’s equal parts nutty, sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, get ready to fall in love with Soft & Chewy Almond Paste Cookies. These little wonders pack serious almond flavor and a dreamy texture that feels almost magical with each bite. Whether you’re a longtime almond fan or just looking to savor something new, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for special occasions and everyday celebrations alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Almond Paste Cookies:
- 8 ounces almond paste (not marzipan)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- Sliced almonds for topping (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make Soft & Chewy Almond Paste Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature ensures your Soft & Chewy Almond Paste Cookies bake slowly to keep their interiors nice and tender. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze, so you can focus on the fun part—baking and sharing!
Step 2: Make the Almond Dough
Break the almond paste into small pieces and drop them into your food processor. Add the granulated sugar and powdered sugar, then pulse everything together until the mixture looks crumbly. This step helps the sugars fully integrate with the almond paste, making your cookies perfectly sweet and chewy in every bite.
Step 3: Add Egg Whites and Almond Extract
Add the egg whites and almond extract directly into the food processor. Pulse again until the dough comes together—it will be smooth, sticky, and deliciously fragrant with almond. Don’t be tempted to overmix; just pulse until everything looks cohesive and soft.
Step 4: Shape and Top the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and drop them onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for some gentle spreading. If you love a bit of crunch and a bakery-style look, gently press a few sliced almonds onto the tops now. Each mound will look rustic and inviting—just right for homemade cookies.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes. You’re looking for lightly golden edges while the centers should remain pale and soft. The magic of Soft & Chewy Almond Paste Cookies is all about that gooey interior, so don’t overbake! Let the cookies cool fully on the pan—they’ll firm up just the right amount while staying perfectly chewy inside.
Step 6: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once your cookies are completely cool, give them a generous dusting of powdered sugar. This finishing touch adds a hint of sweetness and that irresistible snow-dusted look, transforming these cookies into the showstoppers they truly are.
How to Serve Soft & Chewy Almond Paste Cookies
Garnishes
Dress up your Soft & Chewy Almond Paste Cookies with a sprinkle of extra sliced almonds or an elegant sifting of powdered sugar right before serving. A drizzle of dark chocolate can also add a decadent flourish for parties or homemade boxed gifts.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with anything from a steaming mug of coffee or espresso to a lovely cup of tea. They also make a delightful addition to a holiday cookie platter or brunch spread, nestled next to fresh fruits or other crisp, buttery cookies.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your cookies in delicate paper liners and stack them in a clear cellophane bag tied with a ribbon for an effortlessly gorgeous edible gift. For the ultimate dessert plate, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla gelato or a little bowl of mixed berries and let everyone create their own sweet almond moment.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Soft & Chewy Almond Paste Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delightful for up to five days—if they last that long!
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully. Once baked and cooled, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. They’ll keep their flavor and chewy texture for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature for a quick almond fix any time.
Reheating
If you like your cookies just a touch warm, you can microwave one for five to ten seconds to restore that fresh-from-the-oven softness. Avoid the oven, as it can dry them out—these are best enjoyed tender and moist.
FAQs
Can I substitute marzipan for almond paste?
Marzipan is sweeter and firmer than almond paste, so it won’t give you the same texture or flavor. For authentic Soft & Chewy Almond Paste Cookies, almond paste is the way to go!
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no flour or wheat products—just double-check your almond paste and toppings to be certain.
Do I need a food processor?
While a food processor makes mixing effortless, you can also use a stand mixer or even your hands. Just be sure to break down the almond paste thoroughly so the dough is smooth and cohesive.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
They’re ready when the edges are just turning golden and the tops look set but are still soft to the touch. Overbaking will make them less chewy, so it’s best to be cautious and bake until just barely golden.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking so it’s easy to scoop.
Final Thoughts
Bringing a batch of Soft & Chewy Almond Paste Cookies into your kitchen means you’re about to make a lot of friends—these beauties always disappear fast! Give them a try and watch how quickly they become a favorite, whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones.
Print
Soft & Chewy Almond Paste Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 20 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Soft & Chewy Almond Paste Cookies that are perfect for any occasion. These gluten-free treats are bursting with almond flavor and have a wonderfully chewy texture. They are easy to make and will surely become a favorite in your cookie repertoire.
Ingredients
Almond Paste Cookies:
- 8 ounces almond paste (not marzipan)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- Sliced almonds for topping (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Almond Paste: Break the almond paste into small pieces and place it in a food processor. Add the granulated sugar and powdered sugar, and pulse until combined and crumbly.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg whites and almond extract, then pulse again until a smooth, sticky dough forms.
- Bake: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. Optionally, press a few sliced almonds onto the tops of the cookies. Bake for 15–18 minutes until lightly golden around the edges and set but still soft on top.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool completely on the pan, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- For best texture, avoid overbaking to maintain a soft and chewy interior.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- These cookies are naturally gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
