Almond Cookies

Indulge in the delicate pleasure of our Almond Cookies – a delightful combination of crumbliness and irresistible flavors. These cookies are not only delicious but also surprisingly low in carbs, making them a guilt-free treat for any occasion. Get ready to experience the nutty goodness of almond butter, the warmth of vanilla-flavored whey protein powder, and the satisfying crunch of whole almonds. With just the right balance of sweetness and texture, these Almond Cookies are sure to become your new favorite go-to snack.

YIELD:

• This recipe yields approximately 2 1/2 dozen generous-sized cookies. Each cookie contains approximately 3.5 grams of carbohydrates and 0.5 grams of fiber, resulting in a total of 3 grams of usable carbs and 4 grams of protein.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup Splenda (or preferred sugar substitute)
• 1 egg
• 1 cup smooth almond butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 cups vanilla-flavored whey protein powder
• 2 tablespoons water
• 30 whole, shelled almonds

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the room temperature butter until it becomes smooth and fluffy. Add the Splenda and continue to beat, scraping down the sides of the bowl, until the mixture is thoroughly combined.
3. Beat in the egg, then incorporate the almond butter, salt, and baking soda. Mix until all the ingredients are well blended.
4. Gradually beat in the vanilla-flavored whey protein powder, adding about 1/2 cup at a time. Continue to beat until a uniform dough forms.
5. Add the water to the dough and beat until all the ingredients are fully combined.
6. Grease your cookie sheets. Using a measuring tablespoon, scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared cookie sheets. Each cookie should be made from about 2 tablespoons of dough. Press a whole almond into the center of each cookie.
7. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies begin to turn golden brown.

TIPS:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter and egg are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smooth and even cookie dough.
• Creaming Butter and Sweetener: When beating the butter and Splenda, aim for a creamy and well-combined mixture. This provides a solid base for the rest of the ingredients.
• Almond Butter Consistency: Use smooth almond butter for a consistent texture in the cookies. You can use store-bought almond butter or make your own by blending almonds until smooth.
• Incorporating Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients, such as protein powder, baking soda, and salt, in stages. This ensures even mixing and prevents lumps.
• Protein Powder: Choose a good-quality vanilla-flavored whey protein powder for a pleasant flavor. If you prefer a different flavor, feel free to experiment.
• Water Addition: The water helps bring the dough together. Add it gradually and adjust if needed to achieve the right consistency.
• Scooping Cookie Dough: Use a measuring tablespoon to scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the cookie sheets. This ensures uniform-sized cookies that will bake evenly.
• Almond Placement: Gently press a whole almond into the center of each cookie before baking. This not only adds flavor but also creates an appealing presentation.
• Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be just beginning to brown around the edges. Overbaking can result in dry cookies.
• Cooling and Storing: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
• Customization: Feel free to get creative with the recipe. You can add a touch of vanilla extract or almond extract for extra flavor. Chopped dark chocolate or dried fruit can also be great additions.
• Dietary Considerations: If you’re following a specific diet, such as low-carb or keto, make sure to calculate the nutritional information based on the ingredients you use.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to create a batch of delicious and crumbly Almond Cookies that will impress your taste buds and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Savor the delicate yet delightful flavors of our Almond Cookies – a perfect blend of almond butter goodness and wholesome protein. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying snack or a guilt-free treat, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy the nutty goodness in every bite!