I can almost smell the sweet, nutty, and chocolatey aroma wafting through the kitchen—oh, how I adore these Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines all the delightful flavors of the classic candy bar we all know and love, but with the added warmth and comfort of baking. Just imagining biting into a soft, chewy cookie studded with chocolate chips and toasted almonds brings back memories of cozy days spent baking with friends and family.
This is one of those recipes that’s not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s also about gathering around the kitchen counter, sharing stories, and indulging in a little treat together. Plus, when you whip up a small batch, it means fewer leftovers (or maybe just enough to share). So, whether you’re treating yourself or surprising a loved one, let’s dive into this amazing cookie recipe!
What’s in Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies?
Almonds: The star of the show! I love using slivered almonds for a lovely crunch and flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cookie. If you want a little more indulgence, feel free to toss in some chopped chocolate-covered almonds!
Coconut: Sweet, shredded coconut adds that signature tropical touch that truly brings these cookies to life. I like to use unsweetened coconut flakes to keep the sugar levels balanced, but sweetened works great for extra sweetness!
Dark Chocolate Chips: You can’t go wrong with dark chocolate chips; they add a rich, deep flavor to the cookies. I’m a huge fan of semi-sweet chocolate chips, so I usually go for brands like Ghirardelli or Nestlé.
Butter: For that perfect chewy texture, nothing can beat good ole’ butter. I prefer using unsalted so that I can control the sweetness just right.
Brown Sugar: This adds a depth of flavor and an extra chewiness to the cookie. The molasses in brown sugar is a magical touch!
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla is always a good idea—it gives the cookies that homemade warmth and richness.
Is Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies Good for You?
While these cookies are a delightful indulgence, they do offer some real benefits!
Almonds: Packed with healthy fats, fiber, protein, and vitamins, almonds are really good for heart health!
Coconut: This tropical treat is known for its fiber content, helping with digestion and making these cookies a tad guilt-free.
Dark Chocolate: Yes, there’s a bit of sugar in there, but dark chocolate also contains antioxidants that can benefit your heart. Just remember moderation is key!
All that said, remember to enjoy these cookies in moderation. They’re a treat, not a daily snack—balance is essential!
Ingredients List
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ½ cup shredded coconut
– ½ cup dark chocolate chips
– ½ cup slivered almonds
– Pinch of salt
This batch makes about 12 delicious cookies. Perfect for a small gathering or a cozy night in!
How to Make Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until it’s just combined.
5. Fold in the shredded coconut, chocolate chips, and slivered almonds. Make sure everything is evenly distributed!
6. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges. Let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Creative Twists and Serving Suggestions!
Feel free to get creative with these cookies! You can swap in white chocolate chips if you prefer, or even drizzle melted chocolate over the tops for a fancy finish. Want a little crunch? Try adding crushed graham crackers to the mix to mimic that campfire s’mores flavor!
These cookies are perfect for an afternoon treat with tea or coffee, or as a sweet ending to a dinner gathering. You could even serve them warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a mini sundae—yum!
I hope you enjoy making these Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies as much as I do! They’re perfect for any occasion, or just to satisfy that sweet craving. I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so be sure to share your thoughts and any changes you made to the recipe! Happy baking!
