Almond cookies

Almond Cookies - A Delicious Treat Full of Memories

Welcome to the world of flavors and delicious tastes! Today, I will present you with a special recipe for almond cookies, also known as "nasturași". This recipe is not just a simple dessert, but a small piece of my heart, which I learned from my mother, on the occasion of March 8th. It is the perfect opportunity to thank her for all the beautiful moments spent together, and now it is your turn to bring a touch of joy into your life and that of your loved ones.

Total time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 cookies

Ingredients:

4 eggs
250 g sugar
250 g oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
250 g flour
2-3 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
2 tablespoons cocoa
1 packet vanilla sugar
100 g almonds chopped into large pieces

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
To achieve the best results, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This will help to homogenize the mixture and make the dough less sticky. Start by weighing all the ingredients and having them ready.

2. Beating the eggs with sugar:
In a large bowl, crack the 4 eggs and add the 250 g of sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes creamy and the sugar dissolves completely. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy and airy cookie. Add the packet of vanilla sugar and continue mixing for another 1-2 minutes.

3. Adding oil and lemon:
Gradually pour in the oil in a thin stream while continuing to beat. This will emulsify the mixture and provide a fine texture. Then, squeeze the juice from 1/2 lemon and mix well. The lemon juice not only adds a fresh taste but also helps improve the texture of the cookies.

4. Incorporating the flour:
Add the 250 g of flour and mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until fully incorporated. Mix gently to avoid developing gluten, which could make the cookies tougher.

5. Separating the mixture:
Divide the dough into two equal parts. In one part, add the 2 tablespoons of cocoa and mix well until you achieve a uniform composition. The other part remains white, which is the key to the color contrast and the attractive appearance of the cookies.

6. Preparing the tray:
Preheat the oven to 180-200°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This is an important step, as it will facilitate the removal of the cookies from the tray after baking.

7. Shaping the cookies:
Using a spoon or a piping bag, place mounds of white dough on the prepared tray, leaving enough space between them to allow for expansion during baking. On top of each white mound, add a dollop of the cocoa mixture. This color contrast will make the cookies not only delicious but also very appealing!

8. Adding the almonds:
In the center of each cookie, insert a piece of almond. This will not only add a crunchy note but will also provide a delicious nutty flavor, perfectly harmonizing with the sweetness of the cookies.

9. Baking:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-15 minutes, or until they turn golden. It is important not to overbake them, as you want them to remain soft and fluffy inside. Check them from time to time to avoid drying out.

10. Cooling:
Once the cookies are baked, remove the tray from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes in the tray, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. These are the best moments to enjoy the delicious aroma that fills the kitchen!

Serving:
These almond cookies are ideal to be served at breakfast, alongside a cup of coffee, tea, or warm milk. They are also perfect to be enjoyed as a sweet dessert during a gathering with friends or as a quick snack on busy days. You can combine them with ice cream or chocolate sauce for an extra treat.

Nutritional benefits:
These cookies contain eggs, which provide quality protein, while almonds add healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, sugar and oil provide quick energy, but it is best to consume them in moderation, especially if you are watching your caloric intake. Each cookie has approximately 150-180 calories, depending on the serving size.

Tips and variations:
If you want a healthier version, you can replace the oil with applesauce or banana puree for a sweeter but lower-calorie taste. You can also add some dark chocolate chunks to the cocoa dough to intensify the flavors. Use nuts instead of almonds for a different texture, or add spices like cinnamon for a more complex taste.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How can I keep the cookies fresh?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay fresh for 5-7 days.

2. Can I use other types of nuts?
Of course! The cookies can be adapted with various types of nuts, such as pecans, hazelnuts, or pistachios.

3. Is it possible to freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked or baked cookies, and to consume them later, make sure to pack them well to prevent freezer burn.

In conclusion, these almond cookies are more than just a simple dessert; they are a way to create beautiful memories and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, put on some nice music in the background, and let’s enjoy the magic of cooking together. Enjoy your meal!