If you’re searching for a charming, delicious treat that feels both sophisticated and homey, this Almond Heart Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These delicate sandwich cookies, with their tender almond-infused dough and luscious jam-filled centers, are a little bite of joy that’s perfect for special occasions, everyday indulgences, or gifting to loved ones. Lightly dusted with powdered sugar and baked to golden perfection, these cookies offer a perfect balance of nutty flavor and fruity sweetness that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Almond Heart Cookies Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the buttery softness to the fragrant almond essence and the vibrant burst of jam that brings these cookies to life.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): Provides a rich, creamy base that ensures tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the dough evenly while helping create a light crumb.
- Large egg yolk (1): Adds moisture and richness, binding the ingredients beautifully.
- Almond extract (½ teaspoon): Infuses the dough with that unmistakably fragrant and nutty almond aroma.
- All-purpose flour (1¼ cups): The backbone of the dough, providing structure while keeping the cookies tender.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Finely ground almonds or almond flour (¼ cup): Adds extra almond flavor and a lovely texture contrast.
- Raspberry or strawberry jam (¼ cup): The sweet and tangy filling that makes these cookies sing.
- Powdered sugar (optional): A delicate dusting for an elegant, festive finish.
How to Make Almond Heart Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until they become light and fluffy—a crucial step that adds air to the dough for a tender bite. Once that’s achieved, blend in the egg yolk and almond extract until everything is smooth and fragrant.
Step 2: Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and finely ground almonds or almond flour. This dry mixture ensures even distribution of the nuts and salt in your cookies, contributing to the perfect crumbly texture and subtle almond crunch. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients, folding gently until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Chill the dough
Wrap your dough in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to roll out and cut without losing its shape, which is essential for creating those charming heart shapes.
Step 4: Roll and cut
Lightly flour your work surface and roll the chilled dough out to roughly ¼-inch thickness. Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out your cookies. For half of them, cut out a smaller heart in the center—this little window will beautifully showcase the jam when sandwiched together.
Step 5: Bake your cookies
Arrange the cookies on your prepared baking sheet and bake them for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep a close eye—they’re done when the edges start to turn golden but the centers remain pale. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack to keep their delicate texture intact before moving on to assembly.
Step 6: Assemble the sandwich cookies
Spread a thin layer of raspberry or strawberry jam on each solid heart-shaped cookie. Then gently place the heart-window cookies on top, pressing lightly to create a perfect sandwich. For an extra special touch, dust the finished cookies lightly with powdered sugar right before serving. Voilà ! Your Almond Heart Cookies Recipe is now ready to delight.
How to Serve Almond Heart Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Imagine serving these cookies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or even a drizzle of melted white chocolate for visual contrast. Fresh berries or a few edible flower petals nearby can enhance their romantic, delicate vibe, making your presentation irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee to perfectly complement their sweetness and nutty notes. For a more indulgent treat, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side can elevate your sweet moment.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the Almond Heart Cookies in a pretty box with parchment paper layers for gifting, or arrange them on a tiered dessert stand to impress your guests. You can also serve them alongside a cheese and fruit platter to offer a balance of sweet and savory at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay tender and flavorful for up to a week, making it easy to enjoy a treat whenever you want.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, these cookies freeze well once assembled. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready for a sweet treat, just thaw at room temperature.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat sandwich cookies. However, if you prefer them slightly warm, pop them in a low oven for a few minutes or microwave briefly—just be careful not to melt the jam too much.
FAQs
Can I use other types of jam for this Almond Heart Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! While raspberry or strawberry jam works beautifully, feel free to experiment with apricot, cherry, or any favorite fruity spread to tailor the flavor to your liking.
Can I substitute almond extract if I am allergic?
If you’re sensitive to almond extract, you could try vanilla extract as a substitute, though it will change the classic almond flavor that makes this recipe special.
Is it necessary to chill the dough before rolling?
Yes, chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to roll and cut clean, crisp cookie shapes without sticking or losing definition.
How long do these cookies keep fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, your Almond Heart Cookies will remain fresh and delicious for about a week.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that texture might vary slightly, but the almond flavor will still shine.
Final Thoughts
Making this Almond Heart Cookies Recipe is like wrapping a warm hug in a cookie form. The combination of almond richness and sweet jam creates a delightful treat that’s both charming and comforting. I encourage you to try this recipe and watch as these heart-shaped beauties bring smiles to everyone’s faces around your table.
Print
Almond Heart Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes chill time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
- Yield: 20 sandwich cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Almond Heart Cookies are delightful sandwich cookies featuring a tender almond-infused dough filled with sweet raspberry or strawberry jam. Perfectly shaped with charming heart cutouts, these European-inspired treats bring a touch of elegance to any occasion, especially Valentine’s Day. Lightly dusted with powdered sugar, they offer a delicate balance of buttery richness and fruity sweetness.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup finely ground almonds or almond flour
Filling
- ¼ cup raspberry or strawberry jam
Optional
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Egg Yolk and Almond Extract: Incorporate the egg yolk and almond extract into the butter mixture, beating until smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and finely ground almonds to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30 minutes. This step firms the dough, making it easier to roll out and cut.
- Roll Out and Cut Cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes. For half of the cookies, cut out smaller heart shapes in the center to create a window for the jam.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden brown.
- Cool the Cookies: Transfer the baked cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely to prevent the jam from melting.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Spread a small amount of jam on the whole heart cookies. Top each with a windowed cookie to form a sandwich, gently pressing together.
- Optional Dusting: Dust the assembled sandwich cookies lightly with powdered sugar for a pretty finish and added sweetness.
Notes
- You can substitute the raspberry or strawberry jam with apricot, cherry, or any favorite jam flavor for variety.
- These cookies are perfect for Valentine’s Day or special occasions due to their charming heart shape.
- Store the almond heart cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for several days.
- Be careful not to overbake the cookies to maintain a tender texture.
