### How to Make Big Soft Almond Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds (optional)
#### Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
### Step-by-Step Guide to Making Big Soft Almond Cookies
#### **Preparation:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a baking sheet in the oven to warm up.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
#### **Mixing the Dough:**
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream 8 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup of firmly packed light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
4. **Add Egg and Vanilla Extract:** Add one large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well until fully incorporated.
5. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt) into the wet mixture. Stir or mix just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
#### **Folding in Almonds:**
6. **Fold in Almonds (Optional):** If using chopped almonds, fold them gently into the cookie dough with a spatula until evenly distributed.
#### **Shaping and Baking:**
7. **Roll Dough:** Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the warm baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Space them about 2 inches apart.
8. **Bake Cookies:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
#### **Cooling:**
9. **Let Cool on Baking Sheet:** Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set slightly, making handling easier.
10. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once completely cooled, serve your big soft almond cookies while they're still warm or at room temperature.
### Tips for Perfect Almond Cookies:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.
- Do not overbake; once the edges turn golden, remove from oven to avoid drying out.
- Use a scale for precise measurements and consistent results.
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By following these detailed steps, you can create delicious big soft almond cookies that are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy the process and the delightful aroma of freshly baked cookies!