18 Delicious Recipes with Almond Extract to Sweeten Your Day

Are you looking for ways to add a nutty and aromatic flavor to your baked goods? Look no further than almond extract! With its subtle sweetness and hint of almond, this versatile ingredient can elevate everything from sweet treats like cookies and cakes to savory dishes like breads and pastries. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the best of what almond extract has to offer.

From classic sugar cookies to creative twists on old favorites, our collection includes a range of sweet and savory options perfect for any time of day or occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary creation.

Classic Almond Sugar Cookies

Classic Almond Sugar Cookies
Classic Almond Sugar Cookies Recipe

These chewy cookies are a staple of the holiday season, with their buttery flavor and crunchy almond topping.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds

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 soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Stir in sliced almonds.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Yield: About 24 cookies

Almond Extract Pancakes with Maple Syrup

Almond Extract Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy Almond Extract Pancakes, perfectly balanced by a drizzle of warm Maple Syrup.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons almond extract
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple Syrup (for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, egg, and almond extract.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in the melted butter.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
8. Flip pancakes and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.

Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)

Serve warm with a drizzle of Maple Syrup for a sweet and satisfying breakfast or brunch.

Homemade Almond Biscotti

Homemade Almond Biscotti
These classic Italian cookies are perfect for dunking in coffee or tea, and their crunchy texture is a delight to munch on. With this simple recipe, you can create delicious biscotti with the nutty flavor of almonds.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1 cup sliced almonds

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until smooth. Add almond extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Fold in sliced almonds.
5. Divide dough into two portions and shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long.
6. Place logs on prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Slice into 1/2-inch thick slices.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Cherry Almond Coffee Cake

Cherry Almond Coffee Cake
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying treat – this Cherry Almond Coffee Cake is perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 cup cherries, pitted and chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add egg and milk; mix well.
4. Stir in almond extract and cherry mixture.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Almond Buttercream Frosting

Almond Buttercream Frosting
This decadent frosting combines the nutty flavor of almonds with the sweetness of powdered sugar, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be whipping up a delicious batch in no time!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons almond extract
– 2 teaspoons almond butter
– 4-6 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating continuously until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the almond extract and almond butter; mix until well combined.
4. Add the milk or heavy cream, starting with 4 tablespoons and adding more as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Beat for an additional 2-3 minutes until the frosting reaches your desired level of fluffiness.

Cooking Time:

None required! Simply assemble and serve.

Almond Poppy Seed Muffins

Almond Poppy Seed Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. The combination of almond extract, poppy seeds, and sweet brown sugar creates a delicious and satisfying treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– Brown sugar, for topping (optional)

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, and almond extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in poppy seeds.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Top with brown sugar, if desired.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

French Almond Macarons

French Almond Macarons
Elevate your baking skills with these delicate French Almond Macarons, a classic French dessert that requires precision and patience.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– Food coloring (optional)
– Filling of your choice (e.g., buttercream, ganache)

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 large bowl, whip egg whites until frothy. Add cream of tartar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture. Fold gently until well combined.
5. Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small, smooth circles onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Tap the baking sheet gently to remove air bubbles. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour to form skin.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm and lightly golden.

Tips:

– Use aged egg whites for better stability.
– Don’t overmix the batter, as this can cause macarons to be dense.
– Allow the shells to cool completely before filling and serving.

Almond Extract Pound Cake

Almond Extract Pound Cake
This classic pound cake recipe gets a boost of flavor from the addition of almond extract, resulting in a moist and aromatic dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups (190g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons almond extract
– 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by almond extract.
4. Gradually add flour to the mixture, beating until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Vanilla Almond Smoothie

Vanilla Almond Smoothie
Revive your senses with this deliciously refreshing smoothie that combines the sweetness of vanilla and the nutty flavor of almonds. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup frozen mixed berries
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add the frozen mixed berries, sliced banana, almond milk, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the vanilla extract and chopped almonds; blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor as desired.
5. Serve immediately, or add ice cubes for a thicker consistency.

Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes

Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies

Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies
Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Rich, chewy cookies packed with almonds and dark chocolate chips – a perfect treat for any time of day.

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
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips

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 soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Stir in the flour mixture, then fold in almonds and chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Almond Extract Banana Bread

Almond Extract Banana Bread
This sweet treat combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich flavor of almond extract, creating a moist and aromatic loaf perfect for breakfast or snack time.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp almond extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, butter, eggs, and almond extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Toasted Almond Ice Cream

Toasted Almond Ice Cream
This recipe combines the rich flavor of toasted almonds with the creamy texture of homemade ice cream, resulting in a unique and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup toasted almonds (see note)
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add softened butter, vanilla extract, and toasted almonds; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into preheated ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (churning time may vary depending on the ice cream maker)

Almond Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

Almond Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
These buttery cookies are a delightful combination of crunchy almonds and sweet raspberries, perfect for a sweet treat.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup raspberry preserves

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and sliced almonds.
4. Scoop dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Use your thumb to create a small indentation in the center of each cookie. Fill with a small dollop of raspberry preserves.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Almond Cream Cheese Danish

Almond Cream Cheese Danish
These flaky danish pastries are filled with a creamy almond cream cheese mixture, perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat. With their buttery crust and sweet-tart filling, they’re sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into rectangles approximately 4×6 inches.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, sugar, and almond extract until smooth. Spread onto one half of each rectangle, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
4. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the filling.
5. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form triangles. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Almond Extract Cheesecake

Almond Extract Cheesecake
Elevate your cheesecake game with this unique and delicious recipe featuring the subtle flavor of almond extract. This dessert is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting.

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, separated
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp almond extract
– 1 cup sour cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan 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: 1 hour 15 minutes

Orange Almond Glazed Scones

Orange Almond Glazed Scones
Start your day with a sweet and citrusy treat that combines the warmth of orange zest with the crunch of almonds. These scones are perfect for breakfast or as a snack to brighten up your afternoon.

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 orange zest
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Orange glaze (see below)

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 your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir until dough forms. Fold in orange zest and almonds.
5. Pat dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scone.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Orange Glaze:

– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice

Whisk together until smooth and drizzle over warm scones.

Almond Coconut Granola Bars

Almond Coconut Granola Bars
These chewy bars are perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on-the-go. With the combination of crunchy almonds, sweet coconut flakes, and a hint of vanilla, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, almonds, and coconut flakes.
3. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over low heat until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Almond Extract Rice Pudding

Almond Extract Rice Pudding
A creamy and aromatic dessert that combines the warmth of almond extract with the comforting taste of rice pudding.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, salt, and almond extract. Stir into the cooked rice mixture.
4. Add melted butter and stir until well combined.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Summary

Sweeten your day with these 18 delicious recipes that feature almond extract as a key ingredient. From classic sugar cookies to decadent cheesecake, and from breakfast treats like pancakes and muffins to sweet indulgences like ice cream and granola bars, there’s something for everyone. Discover how this versatile flavor enhancer can elevate the taste of your baked goods, desserts, and even savory dishes.

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