If you’re searching for a sweet treat that’s as tender and delightful as it is easy to make, Almond Meltaway Cookies are about to become your new go-to. With their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and fragrant almond glaze, these cookies are the perfect combo of elegance and simplicity. Whether you’re planning a tea party, prepping for the holidays, or just want a little afternoon indulgence, these cookies strike that beautiful balance of chewy, crumbly, and nutty goodness that makes everyone reach for seconds.

Almond Meltaway Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something truly magical about baking with just a handful of simple, quality ingredients—each one plays a special role in making Almond Meltaway Cookies so irresistible. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why it matters.

Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Using high-quality butter is crucial for that ultra-tender, meltaway crumb these cookies are known for.
Powdered sugar (3/4 cup for dough, 1 cup for glaze): Adds a fine sweetness to both the cookies and the luscious glaze, while keeping the texture super smooth.
Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon for dough, 1/4 teaspoon for glaze): This is the secret to the irresistible aroma and deep almond flavor that defines every bite.
All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The foundation of the dough, giving it just enough structure without making the cookies dense.
Cornstarch (1/4 cup): A game-changer for creating that signature melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and amps up those almond notes.
Sliced almonds (1/2 cup, optional for garnish): Adds a satisfying crunch and a pretty finish if you love a touch of elegance.
Milk (1 tablespoon for glaze): Helps create a silky-smooth glaze with just the right drizzle consistency.

How to Make Almond Meltaway Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which not only prevents sticking but also makes for effortless cleanup. Getting your workspace ready means you can move seamlessly from dough to baking!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or sturdy spatula to cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light, pale, and fluffy. This gentle beating process introduces air, ensuring your Almond Meltaway Cookies bake up soft and tender.

Step 3: Add Almond Extract

Pour in the almond extract and beat for a few more seconds. You’ll immediately notice that sweet, nutty fragrance blooming—this is what makes these cookies so special and distinctive.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Cornstarch is the not-so-secret ingredient here, helping achieve that delicate, dissolving texture that sets these cookies apart from ordinary shortbreads.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your creamed butter mixture. Mix on low speed or with a spatula until a soft, cohesive dough forms. Don’t overmix—stop as soon as everything is well combined, preserving that tender crumb.

Step 6: Shape and Flatten

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on your prepared baking sheet with a couple of inches between each. Take the bottom of a glass and gently press each ball to flatten—just until they’re slightly thick rounds. This ensures even baking and that signature look.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, keeping an eye out for just barely golden edges. It’s important not to overbake—you want them to stay soft with that dreamy, meltaway quality. Let them cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 8: Glaze and Garnish

While the cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract for the glaze until completely smooth. Drizzle or spoon the glaze over each cooled cookie, then top with sliced almonds if you’d like a little extra crunch and flair. Let the glaze set before serving.

How to Serve Almond Meltaway Cookies

Garnishes

To really make your Almond Meltaway Cookies pop, don’t skip the sliced almond garnish—it’s an easy way to add texture and a stunning bakery-style presentation. You could also sprinkle on a pinch of finely chopped pistachios or a dusting of edible glitter for festive occasions.

Side Dishes

These cookies are absolutely divine alongside a cup of coffee, robust tea, or even a glass of cold milk. If you’re serving a dessert platter, pair them next to fresh berries, creamy lemon curd, or other European-style shortbreads for a fun variety.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties and gift-giving, stack your Almond Meltaway Cookies in clear cellophane bags with a pretty ribbon or nestle them in a vintage tin lined with parchment. They also look beautiful arranged in concentric circles on a festive plate—just begging to be enjoyed by everyone at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover Almond Meltaway Cookies in an airtight container, and they’ll happily stay fresh and tender for up to five days. Place a piece of parchment between layers, if you glazed them, to keep the cookies looking perfect.

Freezing

If you want to bake ahead, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to a month. Just transfer them directly from the freezer to the oven, adding an extra minute to the bake time. Baked cookies also freeze well—wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn, and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

While these cookies are lovely at room temperature, you can briefly warm them in a low oven (about 300°F) for a few minutes to bring back that just-baked softness and reinvigorate the almond aroma. Only do this without glaze, or it may melt!

FAQs

Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

It’s best to stick with all-purpose flour for the original meltaway texture, but if you want to experiment, try replacing a small portion of the all-purpose flour with almond flour—just know the cookies may spread a bit more and become crumblier.

Can I make Almond Meltaway Cookies vegan?

Swap the butter for a good-quality plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk in the glaze. The cookie may be slightly different in flavor and texture, but still delicious and tender!

Why do you use cornstarch in the recipe?

Cornstarch is the secret weapon in Almond Meltaway Cookies, making them incredibly soft and helping them practically dissolve on your tongue—that’s why you can’t skip it!

How do I know when the cookies are done?

Keep a close eye—they should be just set with only the faintest hint of golden edges, while the tops stay pale. Overbaking will make them too crisp, so pull them out as soon as they look dry on top.

Can I double the recipe for a bigger batch?

Absolutely! Almond Meltaway Cookies double beautifully. Just make sure to chill the dough if your kitchen is warm and bake in batches for perfectly uniform cookies every time.

Final Thoughts

Almond Meltaway Cookies are one of those magical recipes that make bakers and cookie lovers light up with joy. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to baking, these cookies deliver elegance and comfort in every bite. Give them a try—you might just find yourself making them for every celebration, large or small!