Biscuits

Delicious Almond and Lemon Cookie Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes
Number of servings: 20-30 cookies, depending on size

Cookies are a perfect choice for any time of the day – from a quick breakfast to a delicious snack or a savory dessert. This cookie recipe is simple and quick, and the combination of lemon and almonds gives them an unmistakable flavor. Get ready to delight your friends and family with these crispy treats!

A Brief History of Cookies
Cookies were originally created as a form of portable food, easy to preserve, to support long-distance travelers. Over time, recipes evolved, and cookies became a beloved delicacy worldwide. This recipe combines tradition with innovation, bringing a touch of freshness by adding lemon zest and almond essence.

Necessary Ingredients
- 250g margarine (or butter, if you prefer)
- 250g sugar
- 3 egg yolks + 1 whole egg
- 500g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Zest of one lemon (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon almond essence

Step by Step for Perfect Cookies

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help them blend better and facilitate the mixing process. If you choose to use butter instead of margarine, ensure it is well softened to achieve a creamy texture.

2. Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the margarine and sugar. Use an electric mixer or a spatula to mix well until you achieve a smooth and fluffy mixture. This is when the sugar will partially dissolve, giving the cookies a pleasant texture.

3. Adding Eggs and Flavors
Incorporate the 3 egg yolks and the whole egg, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the lemon zest and almond essence. The smell will become irresistible!

4. Preparing Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This step is essential to avoid lumps in the final dough.

5. Combining Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to gently mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. The dough will become elastic and easy to shape.

6. Shaping the Cookies
To shape the cookies, you can choose from several methods:
- Cookie molds: If you have a nut-shaped cookie mold, use it to create visually appealing cookies.
- Piped cookies: If you have a piping bag, you can create piped cookies. These will have a lighter texture and be perfect for dipping in chocolate.
- Cut into shapes: Roll out the dough on a floured surface and use cookie cutters to create various shapes. You can opt for hearts, stars, or any shape you prefer.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them as they will spread during baking. Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden. You will know they are ready when the edges are slightly browned.

8. Cooling and Serving
After baking, let the cookies cool on a rack for a few minutes, then transfer them to a plate. These cookies are delicious warm or at room temperature!

Serving Suggestions
These treats are perfect to enjoy alongside tea or coffee. If you want to add extra flavor, you can melt chocolate and dip one end of the cookies in the melted chocolate. You can also sprinkle some coconut or crushed nuts for a more festive look!

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of oil?
Yes, you can experiment with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine, but the final texture and taste may vary.

- What if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes easy to shape.

- Can I add other flavors?
Sure! You can add cinnamon, vanilla, or even cocoa for more chocolatey cookies.

Nutritional Benefits
These cookies are a good source of energy due to their sugar and healthy fat content. The lemon zest provides a boost of vitamin C, and almonds are known for their antioxidant properties.

In conclusion, these almond and lemon cookies are an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you prepare them for a party or simply want to treat yourself, the recipe is simple, quick, and very easy to adapt. Try them and let their unmistakable aroma delight you! Enjoy!