Almond Butter Cookies

Almond Butter Cookies Photo

Homemade almond butter cookies offer a simple, wholesome delight for any baking enthusiast. Whether you love experimenting in the kitchen or just crave a chewy, nutty treat, this recipe brings rich flavor and incredible ease to your countertop. These flourless cookies skip common allergens yet deliver both taste and texture that rival the best bakery goods. Here, you’ll find everything you need to start making perfect almond butter cookies in your own kitchen.

Why Almond Butter Cookies Stand Out

Almond butter cookies fill that space between health-conscious snacking and classic comfort food. Unlike traditional peanut butter cookies, these offer a nuanced, subtly sweet nuttiness with a slightly softer crumb. Almond butter brings depth, natural richness, and even a touch of earthy undertone, making every bite satisfying.

Anyone seeking gluten-free desserts will appreciate these cookies, too. With no wheat, and simple, familiar ingredients, they come together in less time than it takes to brew a fresh pot of coffee. Even better, almond butter easily adapts to many flavor companions—think vanilla, chocolate, or dried fruit.

Ingredients

Let’s break down what you’ll need and how each piece supports the recipe’s taste and structure.

Ingredient Purpose & Description
Almond butter Provides a smooth, nutty base and acts as the binder.
Brown sugar Adds moisture, softness, and a hint of molasses flavor.
Granulated sugar Lends sweetness and helps the cookies spread.
Large egg Binds the mixture and gives a chewy texture.
Baking soda Lifts the cookies, making them light and slightly crisp.
Mini chocolate chips (optional) Infuses sweet chocolate bursts in every bite.
Vanilla extract (optional) Enhances overall depth and warmth.
Fine sea salt (optional) Balances sweetness, sharpens the nutty taste.

Ingredient Notes:

  • Use creamy almond butter for smooth texture. Brands without added sugar or oil work best.
  • For a heartier version, try stirring in chopped almonds or oats.
  • Vegan? Swap the egg for a flaxseed or chia egg.
  • Chocolate chunks, coconut, or dried cranberries give fun twists.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Almond Butter Cookies

You only need a bowl, a spoon, and less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Each step is built for maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

1. Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Mixing the Dough

  • Combine Wet Ingredients:
    In a medium bowl, whisk one large egg until blended. Add 1 cup almond butter and mix until creamy.

  • Add Sweeteners and Leavening:
    Stir in 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon baking soda along with a pinch of salt, if using.

  • Enhance Flavor:
    Add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for added warmth (optional).

  • Fold In Extras:
    Gently stir in 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips or another favorite mix-in.

3. Shaping the Cookies

  • Scoop heaping tablespoons of dough. Roll each into a ball, then place on the prepared sheets about 2 inches apart.

  • Flatten the dough balls gently with your palm. For a signature look, press the tops with the back of a fork in a crisscross pattern.

4. Baking

  • Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes.
  • Look for golden edges while the centers remain slightly soft. They’ll finish setting as they cool.

5. Cooling

  • Remove cookies from the oven and let them cool directly on the baking sheets for 5 minutes.
  • Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up and keeps the texture just right.

Tips for Perfect Almond Butter Cookies

Even a straightforward recipe has room for a few tricks. A few adjustments can fine-tune texture and flavor.

  • Stir Almond Butter Well:
    Almond butter separates in the jar. Before measuring, stir until fully blended for consistent baking.

  • Room Temperature Ingredients:
    Mixes blend more smoothly and evenly.

  • Flavor Boosts:
    Swirl in a touch of almond extract or finish each raw dough ball with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a bakery vibe.

  • Chill the Dough:
    If you prefer thicker cookies, refrigerate the portioned dough balls for 30 minutes before baking.

  • Mix-Ins Matter:
    Stick to chips, coconut flakes, or nuts. Too many bulky ingredients can make the cookies crumbly.

  • Do Not Overbake:
    Remove cookies as the edges turn golden and the centers look a bit soft. Residual heat ensures a chewy middle.

Storage Guide

Fresh or frozen, almond butter cookies keep well for days—if they last that long.

Storing at Room Temperature

  • Once completely cool, place cookies in an airtight container.
  • Layer with parchment between to avoid sticking.
  • They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Refrigeration

  • For longer storage, refrigerate cookies in a tightly sealed container. This preserves freshness and extends shelf life to 2 weeks.

Freezing Cookies or Dough

  • To Freeze Baked Cookies:
    Arrange in a single layer on a tray and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe zip bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

  • To Freeze Cookie Dough:
    Roll dough balls and freeze on a sheet until firm. Store in a bag or container. Bake straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two.

Customizations and Variations

One of the joys of this recipe is its flexibility. Change up the mix-ins, shapes, or serving suggestions for new experiences each time.

  • Add-Ins:
    Chopped dates, dried cherries, white chocolate, toasted coconut, pumpkin seeds—the possibilities are endless.

  • Dairy-Free:
    Use vegan chocolate or eliminate chocolate entirely for a simple nutty treat.

  • Sandwich Cookies:
    Spread melted chocolate or almond butter between two cookies for a decadent twist.

  • Keto or Low-Sugar:
    Swap sweeteners for monk fruit or erythritol and check that your almond butter is unsweetened.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use crunchy almond butter?

Yes, but the texture will be heartier and less creamy. If you enjoy nutty bits in your cookies, go for it.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Absolutely. The dough comes together quickly and is easy to handle, making it ideal for baking with little ones.

Can I make these without eggs?

Yes. Replace the egg with 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let it gel for 5 minutes, then add as you would a regular egg.

Why do my cookies come out flat or crumbly?

Make sure almond butter is well-stirred and use precise measurements. If the dough seems loose, chill it before baking or add a tablespoon of almond flour or oats.

Serving Ideas

Enjoy these cookies on their own or dress them up:

  • Pair with a glass of cold almond milk or your favorite coffee.
  • Crumble and use as a topper for ice cream or yogurt parfaits.
  • Serve alongside fruit for a satisfying yet light dessert option.

Morning, noon, or night—almond butter cookies feel at home at any table.

With only a handful of ingredients and a quick prep, these almond butter cookies blend rich flavor and wholesome nutrition into each batch. The flourless, gluten-free dough ensures everyone can share, and the easy variations guarantee you never get bored. Whether you crave comfort, creativity, or convenience, these cookies deliver—bite after bite.

Almond Butter Cookies

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4.8 from 8 votes

Course: Dessert / Cuisine: American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cooking Time 10 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 239 cal

These flourless almond butter cookies have crispy edges and soft centers. They offer a rich, nutty flavor. Perfect for a quick and easy gluten-free treat!

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup almond butter
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, optional

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg and almond butter until smooth.
  3. Beat in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and baking soda with a wooden spoon until fully combined. Fold in the mini chocolate chips, if using.
  4. Portion the dough into 1.5 tablespoon-sized balls. Roll smooth then place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
  5. Lightly press down on each ball to flatten slightly (they won’t spread much). If needed, blot excess oil with paper towels.
  6. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are just set. The cookies will look slightly underbaked in the center, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
  7. Cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!
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