Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of the cookies, providing the structure and texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the cookies’ softness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Essential for creating a rich, tender cookie.
- 2 large eggs: Help bind the ingredients and add moisture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Introduces a warm, sweet flavor that characterizes the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cookies a light and airy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- ½ cup sliced almonds: For garnishing, adding a nutty flavor and aesthetic appeal.
- Sprinkles: Optional, for decorating the cookies.
- For the almond glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Acts as the base for the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons almond milk: Used for moisture and flavoring in the glaze.
- ½ teaspoon almond extract: Enhances the almond flavor in the glaze.
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). This is crucial for achieving a soft texture.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, until well incorporated. Then, mix in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain softness.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps to firm up the dough for easier handling.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the chilled dough, roll them into balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each ball to allow for spreading.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. They may appear underbaked in the center, which is desirable for softness.
- Prepare the Almond Glaze: While the cookies are cooling, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons almond milk, and ½ teaspoon almond extract in a small bowl until smooth.
- Glaze the Cookies: Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the almond glaze and place them back on the baking sheet. Add ½ cup sliced almonds and sprinkles on top of the glaze while it’s still wet.
- Set and Serve: Allow the glaze to set for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy these festive treats with family and friends!