Almond Cookies

Lard

Almond cookies originated in southern China and became signature treats that are given to family and friends at Chinese New Year. Made with lard (after all, the Chinese national meat is pork), these cookies are crisp and light. Believed to have numerous health benefits, almonds were historically enjoyed in teas and clear aspics such as the classic dessert, almond float.

Recipe Servings: 4

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes

Vegetarian

Vegan

Gluten Free

Dairy Free

Kosher

Halal

Ingredients

2 cups (410 g) lard
1½ cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (160 g) rice flour
1 tsp (5 ml) baking powder
½ tsp (2.5 ml) salt
1 cup (200 g) sugar
1 egg
1 tsp (5 ml) almond extract
¼ cup (35 g) whole almonds

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease baking sheets.
Sift together all-purpose flour, rice flour, baking powder, and salt into a bowl.
Cream lard and sugar together until fluffy and then beat in egg.
Fold in sifted flours and almond extract.
Form batter into 1-inch (2.5-cm) balls, flatten balls slightly, and press an almond into the center of each.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden.
Remove cookies from baking sheets and let cool.