Name: Almond Crescent Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup finely ground almonds or almond flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt

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If you’re searching for a cookie that’s melt-in-your-mouth buttery, elegantly nutty, and unmistakably classic, these Almond Crescent Cookies are about to become your new go-to treat. They’ve graced many a holiday cookie tray and teatime table for good reason: with tender crumb, just enough sweetness, and a dusting of snowy powdered sugar, they deliver a flavor and texture that feels like pure nostalgia with every bite. Whether you’re gifting them or savoring one with a cup of coffee, this recipe proves why Almond Crescent Cookies have such a devoted following in kitchens everywhere.

Almond Crescent Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how just a few simple ingredients can work a kind of kitchen magic together. Each element in Almond Crescent Cookies does its job beautifully: from rich butter to aromatic almond, they create a delicate and irresistible cookie.

Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The creamy base that gives these cookies their signature tender texture—make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, plus more for dusting): Not only sweetens the dough, but also adds that classic, velvety finish to the tops of the cookies.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor with cozy warmth—pure vanilla is best if you have it.
Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): Brings that unmistakable almond aroma and depth; don’t skip it!
All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation that keeps these cookies delicate but sturdy enough to hold their crescent shape.
Finely ground almonds or almond flour (1 cup): Adds a wonderful nutty richness and just the right amount of crumb.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch boosts all the other flavors and keeps the sweetness in balance.

How to Make Almond Crescent Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This little bit of prep ensures your cookies bake evenly and slide off effortlessly, making cleanup a breeze. Taking just a few minutes to set up means you’ll have perfect Almond Crescent Cookies every single time.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture becomes pale, light, and fluffy. This step is all about building air and a melt-in-your-mouth crumb, so don’t rush—beat for at least 2 to 3 minutes if using a mixer.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Extracts

Into your buttery base, mix in both the vanilla and almond extracts. These concentrated flavors will give the cookies that dreamy, aromatic taste that makes Almond Crescent Cookies so distinct. Blend until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground almonds (or almond flour), and salt. This ensures even distribution, so every bite has just the right texture and flavor. Pro tip: For deeper flavor, you can gently toast the ground almonds on the stovetop and let them cool before mixing in.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Gradually stir the flour mixture into your butter mixture. The dough will come together easily, forming a soft and slightly sticky paste. Don’t overmix—the less you handle it, the more tender your Almond Crescent Cookies will be.

Step 6: Shape the Crescents

Using about a tablespoon of dough at a time, gently roll it into a short log, then bend into a classic crescent shape. Place the formed cookies an inch apart on your lined baking sheets—these cookies won’t spread much, so you can fit quite a few per tray.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, rotating trays halfway through if needed. Look for lightly golden bottoms and just-set tops—the perfect cue that your Almond Crescent Cookies are ready. Don’t let them brown too much, as you want that delicate, pale appearance.

Step 8: Coat in Powdered Sugar

Let the cookies cool on the tray for about 5 minutes, then dust or gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar while still warm. The sugar will cling to the soft surface, creating that iconic snowy coating. Allow to cool completely before serving or storing.

How to Serve Almond Crescent Cookies

Garnishes

The finishing flourish for your Almond Crescent Cookies is a wintry dusting of powdered sugar, but you can also get creative—a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds or a hint of citrus zest amps up both beauty and flavor.

Side Dishes

These cookies are right at home with a steaming cup of coffee, a fragrant pot of black or green tea, or even a glass of cold milk. For a dessert platter, pair alongside chocolate-dipped strawberries or delicate lemon bars for contrast and color.

Creative Ways to Present

Stacked in a clear glass jar with a ribbon, Almond Crescent Cookies make a gorgeous homemade gift. For a festive touch, nestle them on a tiered cake stand alongside other classics like biscotti or shortbread. Or, serve on a vintage platter for retro, tea party appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Almond Crescent Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay tender and tasty for up to a week—if they last that long! Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to preserve their delicate texture.

Freezing

These cookies are fantastic for batch baking because they freeze exceptionally well. Once cooled, layer Almond Crescent Cookies between sheets of parchment in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to three months—perfect for making ahead for holidays or special occasions.

Reheating

If you’d like to refresh your cookies, simply let them come to room temperature from the freezer. For a quick “just-baked” effect, warm Almond Crescent Cookies in a 300°F oven for 3-4 minutes. Afterward, give them a fresh dusting of powdered sugar for that final touch.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?

You could, but the charm of Almond Crescent Cookies is in their nutty richness; swapping out almond flour for more all-purpose flour will change both flavor and texture. Stick to at least some almonds if you can!

What’s the best way to shape the crescents?

Pinch off a tablespoon of dough, roll it into a rope about 3 inches long, and bend into a crescent. If the dough feels too sticky, dust your hands lightly with flour (but not too much, as you want them soft).

Can I make these cookies gluten free?

Absolutely! Substitute a good 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for the all-purpose flour, and double check that your almond flour is 100 percent pure. The results are still melt-in-your-mouth fantastic.

Is it okay to toast the almonds?

Yes, and I highly recommend it for extra depth of flavor. Toast the ground almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring, until fragrant and lightly golden. Let them cool before mixing in.

Do Almond Crescent Cookies travel well?

They do, as long as you pack them snugly in a tin or sturdy container, separated by parchment. Cookies dusted in extra powdered sugar right before serving will look their absolute best.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend these Almond Crescent Cookies enough—they’re one of those magical recipes that instantly put everyone in a good mood. If you haven’t tried baking them yet, now’s your moment to turn a handful of pantry staples into something truly special. I hope they become a treasured favorite at your table, too!

Almond Crescent Cookies Recipe

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4.6 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 34 minutes
Yield: 30 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicate and nutty, these Almond Crescent Cookies are a delightful addition to any cookie platter. With a buttery, almond-infused dough and a dusting of powdered sugar, these crescent-shaped treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or afternoon tea.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup finely ground almonds or almond flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and almond extracts and mix well.
Prepare dough: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground almonds, and salt. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
Shape and bake: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough at a time and shape it into small crescents. Place on the prepared baking sheets, spacing about 1 inch apart. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden and the cookies are set.
Finish: Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes, then gently roll or dust them with powdered sugar while still slightly warm. Cool completely before serving.