Cookies with almonds, oranges, and jam

Delicate almond, orange, and jam cookies

On a sunny day, filled with inspiration and the desire to bring a touch of joy into everyday life, I decided it was the perfect time to prepare cookies with almonds, oranges, and jam. These little delicacies not only look appealing but also have an extraordinary taste, blending sweet and citrus flavors in a surprising way. They are ideal for enjoying at breakfast, as a snack, or even as a gift for loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 24 cookies

Ingredients

- 300 g flour
- 100 g almonds
- Zest of 2 oranges (or one, if you prefer a subtler taste)
- 1 packet of powdered vanilla (or vanilla extract)
- 250 g butter, at room temperature
- 150 g brown sugar (or powdered sugar, to taste)
- Fruit jam (strawberry, peach, plum - choose your favorite)
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons of orange juice

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the almonds: Start by toasting the almonds. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Spread the almonds on a baking tray and bake for 6-7 minutes until they become lightly browned. This step will enhance the almond flavor and add depth to the cookies.

2. Grinding the almonds: Once the almonds have cooled, place them in a blender and grind until you obtain a fine powder. Be careful not to turn them into paste; they should remain granular.

3. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the softened butter and brown sugar. Mix well until you obtain a fluffy cream. Then add the grated orange zest, vanilla, orange juice, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until the ingredients are well combined.

4. Incorporating the flour and almonds: Add the flour and ground almonds, gently mixing with a spatula or your hands until you obtain a homogeneous dough. Form a ball of dough and wrap it in plastic wrap. Place the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is essential, as it will make the dough easier to handle.

5. Cutting the cookies: After the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and divide it into two pieces. Roll each piece out on a lightly floured surface until you achieve a thickness of about 5 mm. Use cookie cutters to cut out the desired shapes.

6. Adding the jam: After cutting out the cookies, gently press your finger in the center of each shape to create a small indentation. Fill each indentation with your favorite jam. This will add a touch of sweetness and make the cookies look appealing.

7. Baking: Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as baking time may vary depending on the oven. Don’t forget to check them to avoid burning!

8. Cooling and storing: Once the cookies are baked, let them cool on a cooling rack. Once cooled, store them in tin boxes or wrapped in parchment paper to maintain their freshness. They will last up to a week (if not devoured in the meantime!).

Useful Tips

- Choosing the jam: You can experiment with different types of jam to achieve new flavors. Peach jam adds a floral note, while plum jam adds a deep sweetness.
- Variations: If you want to add extra crunch, you can replace some of the almonds with walnuts or pistachios. You can also add a few drops of essential orange oil for an even more intense flavor.
- Serving: These cookies are excellent alongside a cup of green tea or a refreshing lemonade. You can even serve them at a party, presenting them on an elegant platter alongside other cookies or pastries.

Nutritional Benefits

These cookies are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Almonds are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, especially vitamin E, which is beneficial for the skin. Additionally, oranges provide a boost of vitamin C, essential for the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but you may need to adjust the liquid quantities.

2. How can I tell when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges begin to turn golden and the dough is no longer sticky to the touch.

3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies before baking. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to bake them, let them thaw at room temperature and bake according to the instructions.

Almond, orange, and jam cookies are more than just a simple recipe; they bring joy and the flavor of childhood, transforming any ordinary day into a celebration. I wish you happy cooking and bon appétit!