Full Recipe
Ingredients
100 g butter, softened
50 g powdered sugar
1 egg yolk
40 g milk
240 g all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt
2 g ground cinnamon
For the Filling:
100 g almonds, finely ground
30 g butter, softened
30 g powdered sugar
2–3 g cinnamon
Cooking Directions
Prepare the dough: In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened butter with powdered sugar until light and creamy. This step creates the tender texture we love in shortbread-style cookies.
Add the wet ingredients: Mix in the egg yolk and milk until fully incorporated. The dough should be smooth and slightly moist.
Combine the dry ingredients: Sift in the flour, salt, and cinnamon, then stir until a soft dough forms. Use your hands to bring it together into a ball.
Make the filling: In a separate bowl, combine the ground almonds, softened butter, powdered sugar, and cinnamon. Mix with a spatula until you get a thick, spreadable paste.
Divide the dough: Split the dough into two equal parts. Roll out each portion into a flat rectangle about 3–4 mm thick.
Add the filling: Spread half of the almond-cinnamon filling evenly over each sheet using a silicone spatula. Make sure it reaches the edges for even flavor.
Shape the cookies: Roll each sheet tightly into a log. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and freeze for 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up for easier slicing.
Slice and bake: Once firm, remove from the freezer and slice each log into 5–6 mm thick rounds. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 12–15 minutes, or until golden around the edges.
Cool and serve: Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish and enjoy!
Nutrients
Calories: 110 kcal per cookie (approximate)
Protein: 2 g
Carbohydrates: 11 g
Fat: 6 g
Sugar: 4 g
Fiber: 1 g
Health Benefits
While cookies are indulgent by nature, these are a smarter treat option thanks to their wholesome ingredients. Almonds provide healthy fats, vitamin E, and protein, while cinnamon is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing the sugar content slightly or substituting with a natural sweetener makes them suitable for those watching their sugar intake. Plus, since they’re made with real butter and simple ingredients, they’re free of preservatives and artificial flavors — a much better alternative to store-bought cookies.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Almond Swirl Cookies are a delightful combination of simplicity and elegance. They capture everything we love about homemade baking — the aroma, the warmth, the creativity, and the joy of sharing something made by hand. Each bite tells a story of tradition, comfort, and a little bit of luxury. Whether you bake them for a special occasion or just because you deserve a treat, they’re guaranteed to make your day a little sweeter. So go ahead, preheat that oven, and let the magic of cinnamon and almonds fill your home — because life is simply better with a batch of freshly baked cookies.Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are the definition of cozy baking. You’ll love the comforting aroma of cinnamon that fills your kitchen as they bake, and that first bite — crisp edges giving way to a buttery, nutty swirl — is pure bliss. They’re just the right balance of sweetness, spice, and texture. Perfect with a morning coffee, a cup of tea, or as an after-dinner treat, they never fail to please. What’s more, their swirled design makes them look like something straight out of a bakery display, but they’re surprisingly easy to make at home.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
Swirl cookies have European roots, particularly in German and Scandinavian baking traditions where nuts, butter, and spices like cinnamon are beloved staples. This recipe takes inspiration from classic Christmas cookies known for their intricate designs and aromatic fillings. The combination of almonds and cinnamon is timeless — it’s the same pairing found in many festive desserts, from almond rolls to marzipan pastries. Over time, bakers have modernized these old-world recipes, simplifying them for the home cook without losing that nostalgic charm.
Ingredient Spotlight
The key players here all contribute something special:
Butter: Provides that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor. Using good-quality butter is worth it — it makes all the difference.
Almonds: These give a subtle nuttiness and texture that balance the buttery dough. Ground almonds also help keep the filling moist and aromatic.
Cinnamon: The heart of the flavor profile — warm, fragrant, and comforting. It’s what makes these cookies so addictive.
Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness without grittiness, perfect for a smooth dough and soft crumb.
Egg Yolk and Milk: The combination adds moisture and richness, helping the dough come together beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
These cookies store extremely well. Once baked and completely cooled, place them in an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to three weeks or freeze them for up to four months. To freeze, place the sliced, unbaked cookies on a tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. You can bake them directly from frozen — just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. There’s no need to reheat them, but if you prefer them slightly warm, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave does the trick.
Common Variations to Try
Nutty Swap: Replace almonds with hazelnuts, walnuts, or pistachios for a different flavor experience.
Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the cookies for a decadent finish.
Spiced Version: Add nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for an extra aromatic touch.
Jam Twist: Spread a thin layer of raspberry or apricot jam before adding the nut filling for a fruity note.
Vegan Option: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and use plant-based milk for a dairy-free treat.
Pairing Recommendations
These cookies pair wonderfully with hot beverages like black coffee, espresso, or a creamy latte. If you’re serving them during the holidays, they also go beautifully with mulled wine or spiced cider. For a lighter touch, serve them with herbal tea — chamomile or rooibos complement the warm cinnamon tones perfectly. They also make an elegant dessert option served alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of cinnamon gelato.
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