Turkish Almond Cookies: Acbadem Kurabiyesi

If you’re looking to indulge in a sweet treat that’s both simple to make and bursting with flavor, look no further than Turkish almond cookies, or Acbadem Kurabiyesi. These delightful cookies are a staple in Turkish cuisine, often enjoyed with tea or coffee. Their chewy texture, nutty flavor, and delicate sweetness make them a perfect companion for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a batch of these irresistible cookies that are sure to impress your family and friends.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of Turkish Almond Cookies: Acbadem Kurabiyesi lies in its simplicity. The combination of almond meal and blanched almond flour gives these cookies a rich, nutty flavor while keeping them wonderfully chewy. The egg whites provide structure without being overly heavy, and a touch of lemon juice brightens the flavor profile. This recipe is forgiving and can be easily adapted, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.

What We’re Using

• 1 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve the perfect texture.
• 3 large egg whites (4 fl oz. or 110 g): Provides structure and moisture.
• A few drops of lemon juice: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Small pinch of salt: Elevates the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1 cup almond meal: Gives a hearty, nutty base to the cookies.
• 1 cup blanched almond flour: Creates a fine texture and lightness.
• 8-12 raw almonds: For topping, adding a beautiful finish and an extra crunch.

Setup & Equipment

• Baking sheet: To place your cookies while they bake.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Electric mixer or whisk: To beat the egg whites until frothy.
• Spatula: For folding and mixing the batter smoothly.
• Cookie scoop or spoon: To portion out the cookies evenly.

Make Turkish Almond Cookies: Acbadem Kurabiyesi: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop a lovely golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make it easier to remove them once baked.

Step 3: Beat the Egg Whites

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or whisk to beat the egg whites until they become frothy. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Add a few drops of lemon juice and a small pinch of salt, continuing to beat until soft peaks form.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the almond meal and blanched almond flour. Gradually add the sugar to the dry ingredients, stirring until evenly combined.

Step 5: Fold in the Mixtures

Gently fold the dry mixture into the beaten egg whites. Use a spatula to combine until just incorporated. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites too much, as they help give the cookies their airy texture.

Step 6: Portion the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in between each cookie. Press a raw almond onto the top of each cookie for decoration.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the tops are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking. They should be crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee!

Year-Round Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
• Citrus Zest: Add some orange or lemon zest to the dough for a zesty twist.
• Spiced Version: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Nut Mix: Substitute raw almonds with other nuts like pistachios or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.

Cook’s Notes

• Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume.
• Do not overmix the batter; gentle folding is key to keeping the cookies light.
• If you prefer sweeter cookies, feel free to increase the sugar slightly.
• For a gluten-free option, ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store your Turkish Almond Cookies: Acbadem Kurabiyesi in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, they can also be frozen. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through.

Reader Q&A

Can I use egg substitutes for this recipe?

While egg whites are essential for the structure of these cookies, you may experiment with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a substitute. Use about 3 tablespoons of aquafaba for each egg white.

What if I don’t have almond meal or almond flour?

You can make your own almond flour by grinding blanched almonds in a food processor until fine. Just be careful not to over-process, or you’ll end up with almond butter!

Can I add other flavorings to the cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with extracts such as vanilla or almond for a more pronounced flavor. Just keep in mind that a little goes a long way.

How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the tops are lightly golden and firm to the touch. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they look slightly underbaked when you pull them out of the oven.

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• Quick Coconut Macaroons

The Last Word

When it comes to baking, few things are as satisfying as pulling a tray of freshly baked Turkish Almond Cookies: Acbadem Kurabiyesi from the oven. Their delightful aroma fills the kitchen, and the first bite reveals a world of flavor and texture that will transport you straight to the heart of Turkey. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them alone with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!