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Ghoriba Almond Cookies

Crumbly, chewy Moroccan almond shortbread cookies with a crunchy crinkled sugar crust and a tender almond-scented center, similar to a Middle Eastern amaret. Just 5 main ingredients for an elegant dessert.

40 minEasyServes 6250 cal/serving

North AfricanDessertOvenVegetarianDairy-FreeSoy-FreeLow-SodiumPork-FreeNightshade-Free

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups almond flour (or finely ground blanched almonds)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp almond extract
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
  • 24 whole blanched almonds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, combine 2 cups almond flour (or finely ground blanched almonds), 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1/2 tsp baking powder. Stir well.

  3. 3

    Add 2 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp almond extract. Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.

  4. 4

    Place 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling) in a shallow bowl. With slightly damp hands, roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into smooth balls. Roll each ball in the granulated sugar to coat thoroughly.

  5. 5

    Place the sugar-coated balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Press one whole blanched almonds (for garnish) into the center of each cookie.

  6. 6

    Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until the cookies are lightly crinkled on the outside but still look slightly underdone. They will be very soft when hot.

  7. 7

    Let cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring - they firm up as they cool into a chewy, crumbly texture.

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Questions

How long does Ghoriba Almond Cookies take?

As written, 40 minutes: 25 of prep and 15 of cooking. The longest single stretch is step 6 (15 minutes): "Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until the cookies are lightly crinkled on the outside but still look slightly underdone."

What temperature do I cook Ghoriba Almond Cookies at?

For Ghoriba Almond Cookies, the oven is set to 350 F (about 175 C) in step 1. The longest stretch at that heat is 15 minutes, in step 6.

Is there a substitute for almond flour in Ghoriba Almond Cookies?

The entry for Ghoriba Almond Cookies calls for 2 cups almond flour (or finely ground blanched almonds). In its place: Finely ground sunflower seeds work at the same weight for a nut-free version. Wheat flour is not a direct swap, because it absorbs far more liquid.

Does Ghoriba Almond Cookies contain tree nuts?

Yes: 2 cups almond flour (or finely ground blanched almonds), 1/2 tsp almond extract and 24 whole blanched almonds (for garnish). The full allergen list for this entry is eggs and tree nuts. Where the nuts are a garnish or a texture, toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds stand in. Packaged ingredients vary by brand, so check labels if the allergy is serious.

How do I store and reheat Ghoriba Almond Cookies?

Store Ghoriba Almond Cookies airtight: two to three days at room temperature or up to a week refrigerated. It freezes for up to two months; thaw at room temperature.

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