Description
These Almond Heart Cookies are delightful European-inspired sandwich cookies made with a blend of all-purpose and almond flours, filled with sweet raspberry or strawberry jam and dusted with powdered sugar. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
Filling and Topping
- 1/4 cup raspberry or strawberry jam (for filling)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the dough.
- Add flavorings and salt: Mix in the almond extract and salt thoroughly to incorporate balanced flavor throughout the dough.
- Add flours gradually: Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and almond flour into the mixture, stirring gently until a soft, cohesive dough forms without overmixing.
- Roll out dough: Divide the dough in half and roll each portion on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch, preparing it for cookie cutting.
- Cut cookies: Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies from the dough. From half of these, cut out a smaller heart in the center to create tops for the sandwich cookies.
- Arrange and bake: Place all the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake them for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are just lightly golden to achieve a tender texture.
- Cool cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, which is essential before assembling the sandwiches.
- Assemble sandwiches: Spread a small amount of jam on the bottom halves of the cookies. Then, place the top halves with the cutout centers over the jam to create beautiful sandwich cookies.
- Dust with powdered sugar: Finish by dusting the tops of the assembled cookies with powdered sugar for an elegant and sweet presentation.
Notes
- You can use any flavor of jam you prefer, such as raspberry, strawberry, or apricot, to customize the taste.
- For crisper cookies, extend baking time by 1 to 2 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid overbaking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
