January Bliss Almond Sugar

Discovering these January Bliss Toasted Almond Sugar Cookies felt like uncovering a cozy winter treasure. The buttery aroma combined with the toasted almonds immediately brought warmth to my kitchen, making those chilly days feel a little brighter.

I remember the first time unexpected holiday guests arrived, and these cookies came together so quickly I felt like a baking superhero. The toasted almonds especially stole the show as everyone kept reaching for just one more.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: I use this standard flour because it gives the perfect structure without weighing the cookies down.
• Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature so it blends smoothly and adds that rich buttery flavor I'm after.
• Sliced almonds: Toasted right before mixing to unlock that nutty aroma that lifts the entire cookie.
• Granulated sugar: For that classic sweet crunch and balance against the rich butter.
• Almond extract: Just a teaspoon brings a warm, cozy note that makes these special every time.

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Toasting the almonds in a dry skillet will fill the air with a fragrant, nutty scent that instantly tells you you're on the right track.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until they're evenly combined, setting a solid foundation for the dough.

Cream Butter and Sugar:

Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, watching as the texture transforms with each pulse of your mixer.

Add Flavorings and Egg:

Incorporate the egg along with vanilla and almond extracts, blending until the mixture feels smooth and aromatic.

Combine Dry with Wet:

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet, stirring just till combined to keep those cookies tender.

Fold in Toasted Almonds:

Gently fold in half the toasted almonds, saving the rest for topping to add extra crunch and beauty.

Shape and Bake:

Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto your sheets, spacing them apart, then gently flatten and sprinkle with reserved almonds plus a pinch of turbinado sugar if you like a little sparkle. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges turn a light golden color.

Cool and Enjoy:

Let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack. This keeps them from breaking and sets their perfect chewy texture.

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This recipe crossed from just food to memory the moment I served these at a chilly family gathering. Watching everyone smile and reach for seconds as the warm taste spread felt like sharing a simple winter hug.

Keeping It Fresh

Storing these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature keeps them soft for up to a week, perfect for planning treats ahead without any fuss.

When You're Missing Something

If you run out of almonds, pecans or hazelnuts are charming substitutes that bring their own unique notes, making every batch a little adventure.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Pairing these with a cup of black tea or glass of milk turns a simple snack into a comforting ritual that’s hard to beat.

• Try sprinkling a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top just before baking for a sweet-salty magic touch
• If you want them extra festive, add a little cinnamon to the dough for holiday vibes
• Always warm them slightly before serving if they’ve been stored — it brings out the buttery flavors beautifully

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Thanks for spending a bit of time here with this recipe — I hope your kitchen fills with that same cozy almond warmth I love. Happy baking, friend!

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do toasted almonds affect the flavor?

Toasting almonds enhances their natural nutty aroma and adds a deeper, richer flavor that complements the buttery dough.

→ Can other nuts be used instead of almonds?

Yes, pecans or hazelnuts can be substituted to provide a different but delicious nutty taste.

→ What texture should the dough have before baking?

The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, allowing for easy scooping and gentle flattening on the baking sheet.

→ Why add almond extract along with vanilla?

Almond extract adds a subtle, sweet almond flavor that enhances the overall nutty profile alongside the comforting vanilla notes.

→ How to store these almond sugar cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their fresh, tender texture.