The Key to Crispy Edges and Soft Centers: Easy Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
What To Know
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a decadent snack, these almond flour chocolate chip cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- If using almond meal, use a finer grind or blend it in a food processor before using.
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) almond flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick/113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (150g) chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
7. Drop and Bake: Drop dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Flatten Slightly: Use a fork or your finger to gently flatten the cookies slightly.
9. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
10. Cool and Enjoy: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success:
- Use Fine Almond Flour: For the best texture, use finely ground almond flour.
- Soften Butter Properly: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature, but not melted.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill Dough: For crispier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference.
- Add Other Flavors: Feel free to add spices (e.g., cinnamon, nutmeg) or other extracts (e.g., almond extract) for additional flavor.
Variations:
- Double Chocolate: Add an extra 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a richer chocolate flavor.
- White Chocolate Chip: Substitute white chocolate chips for a sweeter variation.
- Peanut Butter Chips: Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter chips for a nutty twist.
- Dried Fruit: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, raisins, or cherries for a fruity addition.
- Chocolate Chunks: Use chopped chocolate bars instead of chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate experience.
The Science Behind Almond Flour Cookies:
Almond flour is a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour. It is made from finely ground almonds and has a naturally nutty flavor. When used in cookies, almond flour creates a chewy and moist texture. The lack of gluten means these cookies are suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
The Health Benefits of Almond Flour Cookies:
While not a health food, almond flour cookies can offer some nutritional benefits compared to traditional wheat flour cookies.
- High in Healthy Fats: Almonds are a good source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Rich in Fiber: Almond flour contains more fiber than wheat flour, which can promote digestive health and satiety.
- Lower in Carbohydrates: Almond flour is lower in carbohydrates than wheat flour, making it a potentially better choice for those watching their carb intake.
The Bottom Line:
Mastering the art of almond flour chocolate chip cookies is a delightful culinary journey that yields irresistible treats. By following these simple steps and experimenting with variations, you can create perfect cookies every time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a decadent snack, these almond flour chocolate chip cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
What People Want to Know
1. Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour?
Almond meal is coarser than almond flour and may result in a grittier cookie. If using almond meal, use a finer grind or blend it in a food processor before using.
2. How long do almond flour chocolate chip cookies last?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze almond flour chocolate chip cookies?
Yes, freeze cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.