| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 380 | 22g | 8g | 38g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 23g | 2g | 7g | 0.12g |
I’ve always been captivated by the simple yet intricate nature of a well-baked dessert. Case in point, these Almond and Nutmeg Butter Cookies. The recipe effortlessly marries the richness of almonds, the warmth of nutmeg, and the sweet tanginess of mixed fruit, creating a delightful melody of flavors in every bite. They’re perfect for enjoying on a pleasant afternoon with a good book, or sharing with loved ones at the end of a satisfying meal.
A Nod to the Historic and the Wholesome
My love for this recipe transcends beyond its delicious taste. Growing up in the historic city of Portland, Maine, I was surrounded by classic New England fare including seafood aplenty. However, cookies almost always found their way into the expertise of home cooks across the region, including my own kitchen. Similar to traditional colonial American cookie recipes, these Almond and Nutmeg Butter Cookies build on time-honored techniques while introducing a few delightful surprises.
The Sweet Side of Health
Despite their decadent appeal, these cookies still manage to keep an eye on your health. Almonds, the star ingredient, is known for its myriad health benefits. They’re a heart-healthy food packed with beneficial nutrients like magnesium, vitamin E, and fiber. Almond butter too enhances these benefits, contributing to a nutritious serving. The mix of diced fruit not only adds a burst of flavor and texture but also presents a host of vitamins and antioxidants.
For those who appreciate a good pairing, these cookies are great alongside a refreshing glass of almond milk or even a cup of hot chamomile tea. They could also be a delightful dessert following a comforting bowl of New England clam chowder. But honestly, they shine the brightest when savored purely on their own.
These Almond and Nutmeg Butter Cookies are a testimony to the fact that sometimes, simple baking can yield extraordinary results. They’re more than just a treat; they’re a celebration of homey flavors, well-loved traditions, and healthful ingredients. They’re an homage to the comforts of home, and the joy of sharing something delicious with the people you love.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract
- 1/2 cup of almond butter
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1 cup of diced mixed fruit (such as apples, berries, or peaches)
Method
Step One:
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step Two:
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside for now.
Step Three:
In another large bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
Step Four:
Beat in the large egg into the butter and sugar mixture. Following this, add the vanilla extract and almond extract. Stir well to ensure they’re fully incorporated.
Step Five:
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, making sure not to over mix.
Step Six:
At this point, add the almond butter and ground nutmeg. Mix well until these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step Seven:
Finally, fold in your diced mixed fruit. Be sure to distribute evenly amongst the batter.
Step Eight:
Using a cookies scoop or your hands, form the dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave enough space between each dough ball for the cookies to spread as they bake.
Step Nine:
Bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
Step Ten:
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, enjoy your homemade Almond and Nutmeg Butter Cookies!
