Soft Almond Sugar Cookies

These cookies are soft-baked sugar cookie perfection. Think of them like a cross between your favorite Lofthouse cookies and a simple homemade sugar cookie—only with a gentle almond flavor that makes them feel just a little extra special. You can enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a dreamy buttercream frosting and sprinkles for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

• Soft and fluffy – No crisp edges here, just pillowy centers.
• Hint of almond – Not overpowering, just cozy and nostalgic.
• No rolling or cutting – Scoop, flatten, bake. That’s it.
• Perfect for frosting – They hold their shape and stay tender.
• Freezer-friendly – Bake now, enjoy later!

Prep Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 9–11 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour
• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Calories per cookie: ~160
• Carbs: 20g | Fat: 8g | Protein: 2g

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Almond Buttercream Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract
• Optional: food coloring and sprinkles

Ingredient Notes:

• Almond extract is strong—stick to ½ tsp for a light touch or up to ¾ tsp for more almond flavor.
• For dairy-free, use plant-based butter and dairy-free milk in the frosting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

2. Add Eggs and Extracts

• Beat in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract until well combined.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. Combine and Chill

• Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just combined.
• Cover and chill the dough for 30 minutes—this helps the cookies hold their shape and stay soft.

5. Scoop and Shape

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment.
• Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place 2 inches apart on the sheet.
• Use the bottom of a glass to lightly flatten each ball to about ½ inch thick.

Optional: Dip the glass in sugar before flattening for sparkly tops.

6. Bake

• Bake for 9–11 minutes, just until the edges are set but the centers look soft.
• Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Don’t overbake! The cookies will continue to cook slightly on the tray.

Optional Almond Buttercream Frosting

1. Beat softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Add powdered sugar, almond extract, and 1 tablespoon milk. Beat until fluffy.
3. Add more milk as needed for spreading consistency.
4. Tint with food coloring if desired.
5. Spread on cooled cookies and top with sprinkles.

Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any sprinkle-loving situation!

How to Serve

These cookies are perfect:

• Frosted with sprinkles for parties or holidays
• Plain with a cup of tea or coffee
• Tied up in treat bags for gifting
• With ice cream as soft cookie sandwiches

Try a drizzle of white chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar for a minimalist vibe.

Tips for Cookie Success

1. Don’t skip the chill time – It makes a difference in texture.
2. Flatten evenly – Keeps the cookies uniform and helps them bake evenly.
3. Use real butter – For the best flavor and texture.
4. Keep them soft – Store in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain softness.
5. Double the batch – These freeze beautifully, so you’ll always have cookies ready.

Recipe Variations

• Lemon-Almond Sugar Cookies – Add 1 tsp lemon zest to the dough and frosting.
• Gluten-Free Version – Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
• Almond Joy Twist – Add mini chocolate chips and coconut flakes.
• Cut-Out Option – Roll chilled dough and use cookie cutters; just reduce flour slightly for easier rolling.

Storage & Freezing

Store:

• Keep in an airtight container at room temp for up to 4 days.

Freeze (Unfrosted):

• Freeze cookies or dough balls for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost when ready to serve.

FAQ

Can I skip the almond extract?
Yes! You can use just vanilla for a classic sugar cookie flavor.

Can I use margarine or dairy-free butter?
Yes, just make sure it’s a baking-friendly brand. It may affect texture slightly.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?
The dough might be too warm. Chill longer, and make sure to measure flour accurately.

Can I frost them right after baking?
Let them cool completely first or the frosting will melt right off.

Conclusion

These Soft Almond Sugar Cookies are buttery, fluffy, and full of that nostalgic sugar cookie goodness—only elevated with a gentle almond twist. Whether you frost them, dust them with sugar, or devour them straight from the baking sheet, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

Perfect for every season, every celebration, or just when you need a soft cookie hug. If you make them, tag me in your sprinkle-topped masterpieces—I need to see those soft-baked beauties!

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