If you love nutty, buttery, and crisp cookies, these German Almond Cookies are your new favorite. Packed with the rich flavor of toasted almonds and a hint of vanilla, they are delicate yet satisfyingly crunchy. Perfect for gift-giving, holiday trays, or a cozy tea-time treat, these cookies are easy to make yet impressive in flavor and appearance.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutty and buttery: Each bite bursts with almond flavor.
- Crispy edges, tender centers: Perfect texture balance.
- Easy to make: Minimal ingredients, simple steps.
- Great for holidays: Elegant enough for gifting.
- Customizable: Roll in powdered sugar, dip in chocolate, or leave plain.
Ingredients

- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped or ground almonds
- Optional: Powdered sugar for rolling
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla: Mix until fully combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and almonds.
- Mix together: Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet until a soft dough forms.
- Shape cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on prepared sheets.
- Optional coating: Roll balls in powdered sugar for a festive finish.
- Bake: 12–15 minutes until lightly golden on the edges.
- Cool: Let cookies sit 5 minutes on baking sheet, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- Almond flavor boost: Toast the almonds lightly before mixing for deeper flavor.
- Chocolate twist: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Nut alternatives: Try hazelnuts or pecans for a different nutty profile.
- Storage tip: Keep in airtight containers to maintain crispiness.
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- In the refrigerator: Keeps up to 2 weeks, especially if you prefer extra crispness.
- In the freezer: Place in freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving & Pairing Ideas

- Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
- Serve alongside hot cocoa or spiced cider for holiday gatherings.
- Add to a cookie platter with chocolate-dipped treats.
- Perfect with fruit preserves or a light drizzle of honey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use almond flour instead of chopped almonds?
Yes! Almond flour creates a more tender texture and is perfect if you prefer a smoother cookie.
If butter is too soft or dough is too warm, cookies spread. Chill dough 10–15 minutes before baking.
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Adjust baking time slightly if needed.
Store in airtight containers with a piece of parchment or paper towel to absorb moisture. Avoid stacking too high.
Ready to Make It?
These German Almond Cookies are simple to make, irresistibly crunchy, and perfect for gifting or cozy snacking. Pin, save, and enjoy making these buttery almond delights with family and friends.
You Might Also Like
- Chocolate Chip Cookies – Classic, chewy, and golden perfection
- Snowball Cookies – Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth holiday favorite
- Buttermilk Waffles – Crispy outside, tender inside breakfast treat
- Chocolate Fudge – Rich, creamy, and perfectly smooth chocolate indulgence
German Almond Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Crispy, buttery German Almond Cookies with a rich nutty flavor — perfect for gifting, holiday trays, or cozy tea-time treats.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup finely chopped or ground almonds
Optional: Powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg and vanilla and mix well.
4. Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and almonds.
5. Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture to form dough.
6. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared sheets.
7. Optionally roll in powdered sugar.
8. Bake 12–15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool on sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week.
Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks to maintain crispness.
Freeze in a freezer-safe bag up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg