If you’re on the hunt for a scrumptious treat that’s both indulgent and gluten-free, you absolutely must try these Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies. They bring together the rich nuttiness of almond flour and the sweet burst of chocolate chips in every chewy bite. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon snack or a special occasion, these cookies always steal the show with their perfect balance of flavor and texture. Trust me, once you make a batch, Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies will become your new favorite go-to dessert, guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each playing a key role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma that make Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies so irresistible.
- 2 cups Almond Flour: Finely ground to provide that tender, naturally gluten-free base with a subtle nutty flavor.
- 1 cup Sugar or Coconut Sugar: Adds the perfect sweetness while coconut sugar lends a deeper, caramel-like note.
- ½ teaspoon Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the other flavors without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a light, tender crumb.
- 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (optional): Adds a bright citrus fragrance that beautifully complements the almonds.
- 3 large Egg Whites: Beaten to stiff peaks, they provide volume and that wonderfully chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla or Almond Extract: Boosts the aroma and subtle depth of flavor.
- 1 cup Dark Chocolate Chips: Melts into gooey pockets of sweetness throughout each cookie.
- ½ cup Sliced Almonds: Used for coating, creating a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
- 1 tablespoon Powdered Sugar: For a light dusting that adds a dreamy finishing touch.
How to Make Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze and the final batch flawless.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and if you’re using it, the fragrant orange zest. Mixing these thoroughly sets the stage for a well-balanced flavor in every cookie.
Step 3: Beat Egg Whites and Extract
In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites and vanilla or almond extract until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial — it gives the cookies their tender, airy texture, so don’t rush it!
Step 4: Fold Ingredients Together
Gently fold the fluffy egg whites into your dry mixture, carefully combining until a sticky dough forms. The folding technique ensures your batter stays light and airy instead of dense.
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips
Now stir in the dark chocolate chips, distributing these sweet gems evenly throughout the dough for pockets of luscious, melty chocolate in every bite.
Step 6: Shape and Coat with Almonds
Pour the sliced almonds onto a plate. Use a cookie scoop to form dough balls, then roll each into the almonds to coat them thoroughly with a crunchy, nutty shell that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the almond-coated cookie dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 3 inches apart to give them room to spread. Bake for 15-20 minutes, just until the edges turn golden but the centers remain pale and soft.
Step 8: Cool and Finish
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes to firm up slightly, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust each cookie lightly with powdered sugar before serving for that extra touch of elegance and sweetness.
How to Serve Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies
Garnishes
These cookies are lovely on their own, but you can elevate them by sprinkling additional powdered sugar for a snowy effect, or drizzling melted dark chocolate for a decadent finish. A few extra sliced almonds on top before baking also add charm and texture.
Side Dishes
Serve your Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies alongside a hot cup of coffee, a rich espresso, or a creamy latte to bring out their nutty flavors. For a refreshing contrast, pair them with a glass of cold almond milk or a light vanilla bean ice cream scoop.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking your Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies on a decorative platter with small bowls of dipping sauces like salted caramel or raspberry jam. They also make delightful sandwich cookies when filled with a layer of nut butter or chocolate ganache.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They hold their perfectly chewy texture for up to 5 days, making them a convenient treat to have on hand for spontaneous cravings.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cookie dough balls before baking or freeze baked cookies separated by parchment paper. Both methods keep them fresh for up to 3 months and allow you to bake or thaw as needed.
Reheating
To enjoy the warm, melty delight of freshly baked Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies after storage, simply warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back that irresistible soft texture with gooey chocolate pockets.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
You can substitute regular flour, but the texture and flavor will change, and it won’t be gluten-free anymore. Almond flour gives these cookies their unique moistness and nutty flavor that’s hard to replicate.
What if I don’t have egg whites?
Egg whites are vital for fluffiness and structure, but if you’re avoiding eggs, try aquafaba (chickpea water) whipped to stiff peaks as a vegan alternative.
Can I add other nuts or dried fruits?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries make delicious variations. Just be mindful of the extra moisture and adjust baking time if needed.
How do I make the cookies less sweet?
Reducing sugar or using less sweet chocolate chips helps balance sweetness. Coconut sugar or a natural sweetener with lower glycemic index also works well without sacrificing flavor.
Can these cookies be made dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free, especially if you choose dairy-free chocolate chips. Just double-check your chocolate ingredients to maintain the dairy-free status.
Final Thoughts
Baking Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies is like giving yourself a warm hug in cookie form — sweet, nutty, and utterly satisfying. Once you try these, you’ll understand why they’re so cherished. Whether it’s for sharing with friends or savoring a quiet moment alone, these cookies bring joy with every bite. I can’t wait for you to make your own batch and experience the magic for yourself!
PrintAlmond Chocolate Chip Cookies
Enjoy the magic of Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies, a delightful, gluten-free treat perfect for any occasion. These cookies combine the rich flavors of almond flour and dark chocolate chips, enhanced with a hint of orange zest and a crisp almond coating, offering a soft, chewy texture and a satisfying crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Category: Desserts & Sweets
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- 2 cups Almond Flour, finely ground
- 1 cup Sugar or coconut sugar
- ½ teaspoon Salt, just a pinch
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
For the Flavor
- 1 tablespoon Orange Zest, optional
- 3 large Egg Whites, fresh
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla or Almond Extract
For the Sweetness
- 1 cup Chocolate Chips, dark
- ½ cup Sliced Almonds
For the Finishing Touch
- 1 tablespoon Powdered Sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the cookies evenly.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to facilitate easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and optional orange zest, mixing well to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites and vanilla or almond extract until stiff peaks form, creating a light and airy texture.
- Fold Ingredients: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the dry ingredients until a sticky dough forms, taking care not to deflate the egg whites.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in the dark chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough for delightful chocolate bursts in each bite.
- Coat with Almonds: Spread sliced almonds on a plate. Using a cookie scoop, form dough balls and roll each ball in the sliced almonds to coat thoroughly.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the almond-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 3 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the edges turn golden but the centers remain pale for a soft texture.
- Cool Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes to set and firm up before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Finish with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch and added sweetness.
Notes
- For a vegan alternative, substitute egg whites with aquafaba whipped to stiff peaks.
- Use coconut sugar to keep the cookies unrefined and slightly healthier.
- Optional orange zest adds a fresh citrus flavor that complements the almond and chocolate.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Ensure egg whites are beaten properly to achieve the right cookie texture.