Cardamom cookies are delightful treats infused with the aromatic and exotic flavor of cardamom. These cookies have a buttery texture with a hint of warmth from the cardamom spice, making them a perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. The recipe combines simple ingredients like butter, confectioners’ sugar, almond extract, all-purpose flour, ground cardamom, salt, and finely chopped walnuts. The result is a batch of flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are sure to impress.

Cardamom, a spice native to the Indian subcontinent, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. It was highly valued in ancient civilizations and was even used as a currency in trade. With its distinct and captivating aroma, cardamom became a popular ingredient in various cuisines, including sweet treats like cookies.

Cardamom cookies have their roots in traditional Middle Eastern and Scandinavian baking. These regions have a deep appreciation for the unique flavor of cardamom and incorporate it into many of their culinary creations. Over time, cardamom cookies have gained popularity worldwide, captivating the taste buds of cookie enthusiasts everywhere.

PREP: 20 MIN.

BAKE: 15 MIN./BATCH

MAKES: 6 DOZEN

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups butter, softened
• 2½ cups confectioners’ sugar, divided
• 1½ teaspoons almond extract
• 3¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely chopped walnuts

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar together until they form a smooth and creamy mixture.
2. Add the almond extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture and continue beating until well incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, ground cardamom, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture from step 2.
4. Add the finely chopped walnuts to the dough and stir until they are evenly distributed throughout.
5. Take portions of the dough and roll them between your hands to form 1-inch balls. Place the balls onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking sheets with the dough balls in the oven and bake for approximately 15-17 minutes or until the edges of the cookies turn golden.
7. While the cookies are still warm, roll them gently in the remaining confectioners’ sugar until they are fully coated. The warmth of the cookies will help the sugar adhere to their surface.
8. Transfer the coated cookies to wire racks to cool completely. This will allow the cookies to firm up and develop their desired texture.
9. Once cooled, your delicious cardamom cookies are ready to be enjoyed. Serve them alongside your favorite beverage or package them as delightful gifts for friends and family. Enjoy the wonderful blend of buttery sweetness and cardamom flavor in every bite!

TIPS:

• Ensure Proper Softening of Butter: Softened butter is essential for achieving the desired texture in your cardamom cookies. Make sure to take the butter out of the refrigerator in advance and let it sit at room temperature until it is soft to the touch. This will make it easier to cream the butter with the confectioners’ sugar, resulting in a smoother and more cohesive dough.
• Proper Storage to Preserve Freshness: To keep your cardamom cookies fresh and maintain their delightful taste and texture, store them properly. Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container or cookie jar, separating the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store them at room temperature in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Proper storage will help them retain their flavor and crispness for a longer period.