Delightful Chinese Almond Cookies for Every Celebration

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

When the Lunar New Year approaches, my kitchen is filled with the comforting scent of nostalgia. One of my all-time favorite homemade treats is the delightful Chinese Almond Cookie. These buttery, golden cookies are not just a festive staple; they symbolize good fortune and prosperity in Chinese culture. With their crisp texture and melt-in-your-mouth quality, it s no wonder they re enjoyed year-round.

What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability whether you re leaning towards gluten-free, dairy-free, or even sugar-free options, it allows everyone to indulge without compromise. And let s be honest, there s something special about the light crunch of sliced almonds on top, adding that perfect finishing touch. Join me as we embark on this simple yet rewarding baking adventure that delivers both flavor and warmth in every bite!

Why Choose Chinese Almond Cookies for Your Celebration?

Timeless Tradition: These cookies are not just treats; they carry the rich essence of cultural significance, symbolizing wealth and unity during festivities.
Sensitive to Diets: With easy options for gluten-free, dairy-free, or sugar-free versions, everyone can savor these cookies.
Mouthwatering Flavor: The blend of almond and buttery notes creates an unforgettable taste.
Quick Preparation: The straightforward process ensures you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Their crispy texture and lovely aroma are sure to impress guests, making them a must-have for any celebration.
Versatile Use: Whether enjoyed on their own or as a crumble over ice cream, these cookies enhance any dessert spread beautifully.

Chinese Almond Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
Almond Flour Provides a rich nutty base and distinctive flavor; for gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
Unsalted Butter Adds depth and ensures a tender crumb; substitute with chilled coconut oil or vegan butter for dairy-free options.
Sugar Balances the nutty flavor with gentle sweetness; for sugar-free, replace with monk fruit or erythritol.
Almond Extract Enhances aroma, imparting a deep fragrance to cookies; use vanilla extract for nut-free variations.
All-Purpose Flour Contributes to the delicate structure; omit for gluten-free substitution.
Baking Soda Helps achieve a light, crisp texture.
Eggs Binds dough and creates a shiny finish when brushed on top.
Salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.

For the Garnish
Sliced Almonds Add decorative appeal and a nutty crunch on top of each cookie.

How to Make Chinese Almond Cookies

1. Prepare the Dough: Start by creaming cold unsalted butter and sugar together until fluffy. Then, gradually mix in the eggs and almond extract, followed by almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until fully combined. Chill the dough for 30 minutes to help maintain its shape.

2. Shape the Cookies: Scoop out chilled dough and shape it into small coins. Place a sliced almond on top of each cookie, gently pressing it in to secure it for baking.

3. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Arrange your cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 15 minutes, or until they turn lightly golden brown.

4. Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack to ensure they maintain their delightful crispness before storing them.

Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Chinese Almond Cookies

• Chill the Dough: Always chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This crucial step maintains the shape of the Chinese Almond Cookies during baking.
• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality almond flour for the best flavor and texture. Avoid almond meal, which can lead to a gritty finish.
• Butter Temperature Matters: Make sure your butter is cold when creaming with sugar. This helps achieve that sought-after crispy texture.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden; overbaking can lead to dryness.
• Storage Tips: Store fully cooled cookies in an airtight container. To keep them fresh, add a piece of bread or a desiccant to absorb excess moisture.

Make Ahead Options

Chinese Almond Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just mix all the ingredients and chill the shaped cookie dough in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 4 months; simply bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy the delightful crunch and nutty flavor of freshly baked Chinese Almond Cookies with minimal effort whenever you re ready to serve them!

Chinese Almond Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs!

• Gluten-Free: Swap almond flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend to keep these cookies satisfying without the gluten.

• Dairy-Free: Use chilled coconut oil or vegan butter instead of unsalted butter, making it perfectly dairy-free while still rich.

• Sugar-Free: Replace traditional sugar with monk fruit or erythritol for a guilt-free treat that doesn t skimp on flavor.

• Nut-Free: For a nut-free version, substitute almond extract with vanilla extract and replace almond flour with sunflower seed flour.

• Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of five-spice powder or a sprinkle of grated orange zest for a festive twist that warms the soul.

• Textural Twist: Crushed pistachios or hazelnuts can be used instead of sliced almonds, giving a delightful crunch with a different nutty profile.

• Sweet & Spicy: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or ground ginger for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies.

• Seasonal Special: Infuse your dough with a hint of cardamom or cinnamon for a cozy, aromatic flavor perfect for cool evenings or holidays.

How to Store and Freeze Chinese Almond Cookies

Room Temperature: Store fully cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their crispy texture.

Fridge: If you want to keep the cookies fresher longer, refrigerate them for up to 3-4 weeks; simply let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 4 months. They can be baked directly from frozen; just add an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To reheat, place cookies on a baking sheet and warm at 300 °F (150 °C) for about 5 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience!

What to Serve with Chinese Almond Cookies?

Elevate your cookie experience by pairing these delightful treats with complementary flavors and textures that enhance their nutty, buttery charm.

• Green Tea: This light and refreshing drink balances the sweetness of the cookies, making it a perfect match for a serene afternoon treat.

• Milk Tea: The rich flavor of milk tea pairs beautifully with the cookies, creating a cozy and comforting duo that s hard to resist.

• Jasmine Tea: The floral notes of jasmine tea elevate the cookie s almond essence, offering a delicate and aromatic pairing for a delightful snack.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Crumble the cookies over vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of textures and an indulgent, creamy treat that s sure to impress.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brings a burst of juices and colors, providing a fresh palate cleanser after your sweet indulgence.

• Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The richness of chocolate complements the almond flavor perfectly, adding a touch of elegance to your dessert platter.

Remember, the joy of serving is all about creating that perfect pairing to enhance your dining experience!

Chinese Almond Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of almond flour should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, use finely ground almond flour, as it offers a smoother texture and more delicate flavor. Avoid almond meal, which can lead to a gritty finish.

How long can I store cooked Chinese Almond Cookies?
You can store fully cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for 3-4 weeks; just let them come to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze Chinese Almond Cookies, and how?
Yes, you can! For freezing, place the cookies in an airtight container or a freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 4 months. When you re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, that could be due to the temperature of your ingredients. Make sure your butter is cold when you cream it. If the dough remains sticky, you can sprinkle some extra almond flour or refrigerate the dough again for 15-30 minutes to firm it up.

Are there any common allergens I should be aware of?
Yes! While Chinese Almond Cookies are nut-based, they can also be made gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour. For a dairy-free version, use chilled coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Remember to inform guests of the ingredients, especially if serving to those with nut allergies.

Can I adapt the recipe for different dietary needs?
Very! This recipe is versatile. For a sugar-free version, consider using monk fruit or erythritol as a sugar substitute. If you need a nut-free alternative, replace the almond flour with sunflower seed flour and use vanilla extract instead of almond extract. The more the merrier with variations!