12/10/2026
🌙 Healthier Almond Half-Moon Cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 10–14 minutes
Yield: 18–22 cookies
Ingredients
* 1 cup almond flour
* ¾ cup whole-wheat pastry flour or all-purpose flour
* ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
* ¼ cup pure maple syrup
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* ½ teaspoon almond extract
* ¼ teaspoon baking powder
* ⅛ teaspoon salt
* 2 tablespoons finely chopped almonds (optional)
* 1–2 tablespoons powdered sugar, for a light dusting (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and maple syrup until smooth.
3. Add the vanilla and almond extracts, mixing well.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the almond flour, whole-wheat pastry flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms. Fold in the chopped almonds if desired.
6. Refrigerate the dough for 20 minutes to make shaping easier.
7. Roll small portions of dough into short logs, then gently curve each one into a half-moon or crescent shape.
8. Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
9. Bake for 10–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.
11. Once completely cool, dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.
Healthier Baking Tips
* Use unsalted butter and measure the maple syrup carefully.
* Choose finely ground almond flour for a delicate texture.
* For a more wholesome cookie, use whole-wheat pastry flour.
* Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.