Cookies and Bars

The Best Easy Toasted Almond Shortbread Cookie Recipe

These cookies are the ultimate comfort treat, combining the deep crunch of golden-toasted almonds with a classic, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread base. They are remarkably simple to make and fill your kitchen with the most incredible aroma of butter and nuts.

Toasted Almond Shortbread Cookies
Prep
15 min
Cook
20 min
Serves
12
Level
Easy
Per serving
270 kcal

Method

  1. Spread the chopped almonds in a dry pan over medium heat and toast until golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Set aside to cool completely.

  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

  3. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract.

  4. Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

  5. Gently fold in the cooled toasted almonds until evenly distributed.

  6. Form the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

  7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  8. Slice the chilled dough log into 1/2-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet spaced 1 inch apart.

  9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are just barely beginning to turn golden.

  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

Ensure the toasted almonds are completely cool before adding them to the dough to prevent the butter from melting.

For a cleaner slice, use a very sharp knife and rotate the dough log slightly after every few cuts to maintain its round shape.

Don't skip the chilling time; it prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven and develops the flavor.

If you want an extra touch of sweetness, dip half of each cooled cookie into melted dark chocolate.

Questions

Can I use salted butter instead?
Yes, but omit the extra 1/4 teaspoon of salt from the recipe to keep the balance right.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they will stay delicious for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely. You can freeze the wrapped dough log for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before slicing and baking.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
The butter might have been too warm when you mixed the dough, or the dough wasn't chilled long enough before slicing.

Try this next

Apple Cider Glazed Meatballs

Dinners and Mains

Apple Cider Glazed Meatballs

These meatballs are the ultimate cold-weather comfort food, combining savory beef and pork...

Gluten Free Lemonade Dip

Drinks and Cocktails

Gluten Free Lemonade Dip

This fluffy, citrusy dip captures the bright essence of summer with a cloud-like texture...

More from The Messy Baker

Strawberry Balsamic Jam

Breads and Breakfast

Strawberry Balsamic Jam

This isn't your average grocery store jelly; it's a sophisticated, glossy preserve where the...

Bloody Mary Potatoes

Snacks and Starters

Bloody Mary Potatoes

Everything you love about the classic brunch cocktail, but in crispy, golden potato form....

Greek Salad Wrap

Dinners and Mains

Greek Salad Wrap

These wraps are my absolute go-to when I want something that feels like a garden party in my...

How to Rescue a Split Batter

Baking Basics

How to Rescue a Split Batter

Every home baker has been there: you're following a recipe perfectly, but as soon as you add...

Pomegranate Mulled Wine

Drinks and Cocktails

Pomegranate Mulled Wine

This isn't just another pot of warm wine; it's a vibrant, ruby-red hug in a mug that...