When it comes to baking, a little goes a long way – especially when it comes to capturing the essence of almonds. That’s where almond extract comes in! This concentrated liquid flavoring is a game-changer for anyone who loves sweet treats infused with the nutty taste and aroma of almonds. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, incorporating almond extract into your recipes can elevate your creations to new heights.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of almond extract in both classic and modern desserts. From chewy cookies to decadent cakes, and from sweet breads to indulgent pastries, we’ll take you on a culinary journey that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something new and delicious.
Almond Extract Chocolate Chip Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with the subtle nuance of almond extract! These chewy treats combine the deep flavor of dark chocolate chips with the creamy undertones of almond, creating a truly unique baking experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp pure almond extract
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and almond extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Almond Pound Cake
This classic pound cake gets a delightful twist with the addition of vanilla and almonds, creating a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup almond extract
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by almond extract.
5. Gradually add flour mixture to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in sliced almonds.
7. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Almond Extract Glazed Donuts
Elevate your donut game with the subtle nutty flavor of almond extract, perfectly balanced with a sweet glaze. These tender and fluffy treats are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
4. Add melted butter, almond extract, and mix well.
5. Pipe dough into donut shapes; fry for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and let cool on paper towels.
7. Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk to create glaze.
8. Dip cooled donuts in the glaze, letting excess drizzle off.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Cherry Almond Thumbprint Cookies
These sweet and tangy cookies are perfect for snacking or sharing with friends and family. With a hint of almond flavor and a burst of cherry filling, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp almond extract
– 1 cup cherry filling (such as maraschino or cherry jam)
– Chopped almonds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and almond extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or a spoon to make an indentation in each cookie. Fill with cherry filling.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool on wire rack before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Almond Extract Cheesecake
Elevate your cheesecake game with the addition of almond extract, adding a subtle nutty flavor to this creamy dessert. This recipe yields a smooth and rich cheesecake perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into prepared pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time.
4. Add sugar, almond extract, and sour cream; mix until combined.
5. Pour batter into crust and bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Let cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Lemon Almond Shortbread Bars
Lemon Almond Shortbread Bars Recipe
Brighten up your day with these tangy and buttery shortbread bars infused with the sweetness of lemon zest and the crunch of almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in granulated sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Fold in sliced almonds.
4. Press dough evenly into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Almond Extract Banana Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the nutty flavor of almond extract, resulting in a deliciously moist banana bread perfect for snacking or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp almond extract
– Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Add mashed bananas and almond extract to the wet ingredients; mix well.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Toasted Almond Ice Cream
Savor the nutty flavor of toasted almonds in this creamy and refreshing ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup toasted almonds (see note)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the toasted almonds and continue to churn until they are evenly distributed.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (including chilling time)
Note: To toast the almonds, preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool before using.
Almond Extract Cinnamon Rolls
Almond Extract Cinnamon Rolls: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat
These sweet treats combine the warmth of cinnamon with the subtle nuttiness of almond extract, creating a unique and mouthwatering flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, milk, egg, and almond extract. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Brush with melted butter.
6. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Roll the dough into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
8. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each roll.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Raspberry Almond Coffee Cake
Start your day with a sweet and buttery coffee cake infused with the flavors of raspberries and almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, egg, yogurt, and almond extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in raspberries and almonds.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Almond Extract Macarons
Elevate your macaron game with the subtle nutty flavor of almond extract, perfect for spring-inspired desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg whites, cream of tartar, and almond extract until frothy.
4. Gradually pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
6. Pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Tap the baking sheet gently to remove any air bubbles.
8. Let macarons sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour before baking for 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orange Almond Biscotti
Brighten up your cookie jar with these crunchy, citrusy biscotti flavored with orange zest and almonds. Perfect for dunking in tea or coffee, or enjoying on their own.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon orange zest
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and orange zest.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; stir until combined.
5. Fold in almonds.
6. Shape into 2 logs (about 12 inches long). Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven; let cool for 10 minutes.
9. Reduce temperature to 325°F (165°C).
10. Slice logs into 1/2-inch thick slices.
11. Bake for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Almond Extract Pancakes with Berry Compote
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy pancakes infused with the nutty flavor of almond extract, paired with a sweet and tangy berry compote.
Ingredients:
For the pancakes:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons almond extract
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
For the berry compote:
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and almond extract.
4. Add melted butter to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
6. Cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface. Flip and cook an additional minute.
7. For the compote, combine berries, sugar, honey, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
8. Serve warm pancakes with fresh berry compote and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Almond Poppy Seed Muffins
Experience the perfect balance of crunchy almonds and sweet poppy seeds in these delightful muffins.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, yogurt, and almond extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in sliced almonds and poppy seeds.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Almond Extract Rice Pudding
This classic dessert gets a sophisticated twist with the addition of almond extract, creating a subtle yet distinct flavor profile. Perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Combine rice, milk, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and creamy.
4. Remove from heat and stir in almond extract and melted butter.
5. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Blueberry Almond Scones
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying treat that combines the natural sweetness of blueberries with the nutty flavor of almonds. These scones are perfect for breakfast or as a snack to brighten up any moment.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Chopped almonds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, egg, and almond extract.
5. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Gently fold in blueberries.
7. Turn dough out onto floured surface and pat into 1-inch thick circle.
8. Cut into 8-10 triangles and place on prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Almond Extract French Toast
Almond Extract French Toast Recipe
Elevate your breakfast game with this decadent Almond Extract French Toast recipe, featuring a hint of nutty flavor and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup almond extract
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and almond extract until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Serve warm, dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pistachio Almond Baklava
A classic Middle Eastern dessert gets a nutty twist with the addition of pistachios and almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and honey until well combined.
4. Layer 5 sheets of phyllo dough in a baking dish, brushing each sheet with some of the sugar-honey mixture.
5. Sprinkle a layer of pistachios and almonds on top of the phyllo dough.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 two more times, finishing with a layer of phyllo dough on top.
7. Bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Note: Let the baklava cool completely before serving. You can also store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet world of almond extract recipes! This article presents 18 scrumptious treats that incorporate the nutty flavor of almond extract. From classic cookies and cakes to creative donuts, muffins, and ice cream, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Discover how almond extract can elevate the flavors of vanilla, chocolate, lemon, and more in dishes like Almond Extract Chocolate Chip Cookies, Vanilla Almond Pound Cake, and Toasted Almond Ice Cream. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes offer a delicious way to explore the versatility of almond extract.
