Texas Almond Crunch Cookies

If you’re looking to add a delightful twist to your cookie repertoire, look no further than Texas Almond Crunch Cookies. These cookies are a celebration of textures and flavors, combining the richness of butter, the crunch of almonds, and the sweetness of toffee bits. Perfect for gatherings or as a special treat for yourself, they’re easy to whip up and will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s embark on this cookie-making adventure!

Top Reasons to Make Texas Almond Crunch Cookies

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of almonds and toffee creates a nutty, sweet profile that is hard to resist.
• Crunchy Texture: Each cookie offers a satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll have these cookies in the oven in no time!
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or simply a cozy night in.
• Great for Sharing: With a generous yield, they are ideal for sharing with friends and family.

Shopping List

• 1 cup granulated white sugar
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
• 1 cup vegetable or canola oil
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 2 cups almonds, coarsely chopped
• 1 (6 ounce) package butter toffee baking bits
• ½ cup granulated white sugar, for coating rolled cookies

Before You Start: Equipment

• Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: To cream the butter and sugars effectively.
• Baking Sheets: Non-stick or lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Cookie Scoop or Spoon: For portioning out the dough.
• Cooling Rack: To cool your cookies once they are baked.

Texas Almond Crunch Cookies, Made Easy

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly crispy on the outside yet chewy on the inside.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated white sugar, and powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the vegetable or canola oil, almond extract, and eggs to the mixture. Beat until fully incorporated, ensuring everything is well blended.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar. This step is crucial to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.

Step 5: Combine the Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Almonds and Toffee Bits

Gently fold in the coarsely chopped almonds and butter toffee baking bits using a spatula. This will give your cookies that signature crunch and sweetness.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the cookie dough and roll it into balls. Roll each ball in the ½ cup of granulated white sugar to coat thoroughly.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy your Texas Almond Crunch Cookies warm or at room temperature!

If You’re Out Of…

• Butter: You can substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
• Almond Extract: Vanilla extract can be used as a substitute, though it will change the flavor slightly.
• Powdered Sugar: You can make your own by blending granulated sugar until fine.
• Whole Wheat Flour: You can replace it with additional all-purpose flour if necessary.

Pro Tips & Notes

• Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture.
• Feel free to toast the almonds beforehand for an enhanced flavor.
• To achieve uniform cookie sizes, use a cookie scoop.
• Watch the cookies closely as they bake; they can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

These Texas Almond Crunch Cookies can be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, bake the cookies and allow them to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. You can also freeze the unbaked dough, portioning it into balls and storing them in a freezer bag. When ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!

Reader Questions

Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Absolutely! Pecans or walnuts would be delicious alternatives that still provide a wonderful crunch.

How can I make these cookies less sweet?

Consider reducing the amount of granulated sugar or using dark chocolate chips instead of butter toffee bits for a less sugary flavor.

What’s the best way to store these cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer shelf life, freeze them as mentioned earlier.

Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?

Yes, chocolate chips would pair wonderfully with the almond and toffee flavors. Just be sure to adjust the amount of toffee bits if you do!

Serve with These

• Freshly Brewed Coffee – A perfect pairing for cookies!
• Herbal Tea – A soothing complement to the crunch of the cookies.
• Cold Milk – A classic choice that never gets old.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – Take your cookie experience to the next level!

Bring It Home

These Texas Almond Crunch Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a testament to the joy of baking and sharing with loved ones. With a combination of simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll have a delightful batch that’s sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in the sweet, nutty goodness of these cookies. Whether they become your new favorite or a cherished family recipe, each bite is bound to create delicious memories. Happy baking!