The Chinese New Year, which coincides with a new moon, begins Friday, Feb. 16, this year and will be celebrated for about two weeks. This is the “Year of the Dog.”
And, what better way to celebrate the occasion, even if you’re not of Chinese descent, than with a Chinese entree and traditional almond cookies?
These almond cookies are believed to have been introduced to the U.S. in the late 1800s when the first wave of immigrants from China made their way across the country. The Chinese may be known more for fortune cookies, but those treats are more about entertainment, unlike almond cookies that are popular for their delicious flavor.
This almond cookie recipe makes a big plate full that tastes just like those you find in restaurants. They go well with a cup of hot tea or a glass of cold milk. They also keep well for at least a week if you store them in an air-tight container.
Happy Chinese New Year!
CHINESE ALMOND COOKIES
1 cup butter (softened to room temperature)
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups flour
1 egg white, beaten with 1 teaspoon water
2 tablespoons sliced almonds
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg, almond extract, baking powder and salt.
Slowly add 3 cups flour. Beat until batter is blended.
Divide batter into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheet. Flatten balls of dough with the bottom of a glass.
Brush the tops of cookies with egg white wash and sprinkle with almond slices.
Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely before storing in air-tight container.
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