Almond flour is a popular alternative to traditional wheat flour, especially for those following gluten-free, paleo, or low-carb diets. Here are a few reasons to consider using almond flour in your baking:

Gluten-Free: Almond flour is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Nutrient-Rich: Almond flour is high in protein, healthy fats, and vitamin E, providing a more nutritious option compared to regular flour.
Low-Carb: For those watching their carbohydrate intake, almond flour offers a lower-carb alternative, which is beneficial for keto and low-carb diets.

Ingredients Needed

To make delicious almond flour cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups blanched almond flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup butter or vegan butter, softened
3 tablespoons maple syrup or coconut sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour and baking powder. Stir until well mixed.

Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the softened butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix until fully combined. If you're using chocolate chips, fold them into the dough at this stage.

Shape the Dough: Form the dough into 12 small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Press each ball down slightly to form a thick cookie shape.

Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as they can go from golden to dark brown quickly.

Cool and Enjoy: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Almond Flour Cookies

Use Blanched Almond Flour: It’s essential to use blanched almond flour, as almond meal can yield denser cookies due to its coarser texture.
Do Not Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They continue to cook as they cool, so it's better to take them out when they are slightly underbaked.
Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I Use Almond Meal Instead of Almond Flour?

While almond meal can be used, it tends to create denser cookies due to its coarser texture. For best results, opt for blanched almond flour, which is finer and yields a lighter cookie.

How Do I Make These Cookies Vegan?

To make vegan almond flour cookies, simply replace the butter with vegan butter and use maple syrup instead of sugar. This keeps the recipe plant-based while maintaining its delicious flavor.

Can I Freeze Almond Flour Cookie Dough?

Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Almond flour cookies are a delightful and healthy treat that can be made quickly and easily. With their chewy texture and rich flavor, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. Whether you're on a gluten-free diet, watching your carbs, or simply looking for a tasty cookie recipe, these almond flour cookies are a great choice. So gather your ingredients and enjoy baking a batch today!