If you’ve been searching for a cookie recipe that hits all the right notes—soft, buttery, lightly sweet, and with a hint of almond flavor—then this Almond Sugar Cookies recipe is your new go-to. Perfect for holidays, afternoon tea, or a simple sweet treat, these cookies are both easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp almond extract
½ tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup sliced almonds, plus extra for topping

Optional Decoration:

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Add Egg and Extracts: Beat in the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Shape Cookies: Scoop dough into 1 ½-tablespoon portions and roll into balls. Press lightly with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass. Sprinkle sliced almonds on top for texture and visual appeal.
Bake: Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. Bake 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
Cool: Remove cookies from oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Dusting: Once cooled, dust lightly with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Tips for Perfect Almond Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smoother, more uniform dough.
Don’t Overbake: Cookies continue to bake slightly after being removed from the oven, so take them out when edges are golden and centers are soft.
Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure evenly sized cookies for consistent baking.
Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer for up to 2 months.

Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: Melt semi-sweet chocolate and drizzle over cooled cookies for an extra touch of decadence.
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Spiced Almond: Add ½ tsp cinnamon or cardamom for a warm, aromatic variation.
Almond Joy: Mix in mini chocolate chips and shredded coconut for a cookie inspired by the classic candy bar.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a relaxing afternoon snack.
Plate on a festive holiday tray with other small cookies for a colorful dessert spread.
Use as cookie sandwiches by adding almond-flavored buttercream or Nutella in between two cookies.

Fun Facts About Almond Cookies

Almonds have been a staple in European and Middle Eastern baking for centuries, prized for their rich flavor and delicate crunch. In many cultures, almond cookies are a symbol of good luck and prosperity—making them a traditional treat during holidays and celebrations. Their versatility allows them to be simple and understated or decadently decorated, depending on the occasion.

Whether you enjoy these cookies plain, dusted, or sandwiched with filling, this Almond Sugar Cookies recipe delivers buttery, sweet, and soft bites every time. Perfect for gifting, snacking, or baking with kids, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a household favorite.