Cinnamon and Almond Shortbread Sticks: A Delicious and Crumbly Treat

When you think of the perfect cookie, what comes to mind? For many, it’s the classic shortbread—rich, buttery, and just the right amount of crumbly. But what happens when you add a hint of cinnamon and the crunch of toasted almonds? You get the most irresistible shortbread sticks, perfect for snacking, gifting, or enjoying with a warm cup of tea. These cinnamon and almond shortbread sticks are a delightful twist on the classic, infusing the richness of shortbread with the warmth of cinnamon and the nutty crunch of almonds.

In this article, we’ll guide you through making these delectable shortbread sticks from scratch. We’ll explain the step-by-step process, provide tips for getting the perfect texture, and give you ideas for variations to make this recipe your own. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and yields delicious results every time.

The Perfect Combination: Cinnamon, Almond, and Shortbread

Shortbread is a beloved treat because of its simple, buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Adding cinnamon and almonds elevates this classic cookie into something extraordinary. Here’s why this combination works so well:

Cinnamon: A Warm, Inviting Flavor

Cinnamon is a spice that brings warmth and depth to any dish. Its sweet, slightly spicy flavor complements the buttery richness of shortbread, making it the perfect addition to these sticks. Not only does cinnamon enhance the taste, but it also adds a comforting aroma that will fill your kitchen while the cookies bake.

Almonds: A Nutty, Crunchy Texture

Almonds add more than just flavor—they also bring a satisfying crunch to the shortbread sticks. Whether you choose sliced, slivered, or chopped almonds, they offer a nutty contrast to the soft, crumbly shortbread. Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to this treat.

Shortbread: Buttery and Crumbly Perfection

The base of these sticks is shortbread, a classic cookie made with butter, sugar, and flour. Shortbread has a unique crumbly texture that melts in your mouth, thanks to its high butter content. The simplicity of shortbread allows the flavors of the cinnamon and almonds to shine, creating a cookie that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients You Will Need

To make cinnamon and almond shortbread sticks, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for a smooth texture)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup chopped or sliced almonds (or slivered almonds)
• Additional cinnamon sugar (for sprinkling, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preparing your ingredients. Ensure that the butter is softened to room temperature, which helps the dough come together smoothly. Chop or slice the almonds into small pieces if necessary. If you’re using slivered almonds, these will add a more delicate crunch, but any form of almonds works wonderfully in this recipe.

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar using an electric mixer or by hand. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes. The powdered sugar helps create a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture for the shortbread.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the flour, salt, and cinnamon to the bowl. Mix until just combined. The dough will be thick and crumbly at this point. You can use your hands to gently bring the dough together into a ball. The key here is not to overwork the dough, as this can result in tough shortbread.

Step 4: Fold in the Almonds

Once the dough has come together, gently fold in the chopped or sliced almonds. Be sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. If you like a bit of extra crunch, you can add more almonds at this stage.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle about ½-inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into thin strips or sticks, about 2 inches long. You can also use a cookie cutter to make different shapes if you prefer. Place the cut dough sticks onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 6: Bake the Shortbread Sticks

Bake the shortbread sticks in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as shortbread can quickly go from golden to overdone. The cookies should still feel soft in the center but will firm up as they cool.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Remove the shortbread sticks from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If you’d like, you can sprinkle the warm cookies with a bit of cinnamon sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and spice.

Once the cookies are completely cool, serve them as a delicious treat with your favorite beverage, or store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Variations of Cinnamon and Almond Shortbread Sticks

While this recipe is already delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations to try:

• Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Sticks: Melt some dark or milk chocolate and dip the ends of the shortbread sticks into the chocolate for an added layer of sweetness. Let the chocolate harden before serving.
• Spiced Version: Experiment with other spices such as nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to create a spiced version of the shortbread sticks. The cinnamon and nutmeg combination is particularly comforting.
• Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy brightness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and almonds.
• Nutty Shortbread Sticks: Try adding a different type of nut, such as walnuts or pistachios, to the dough for a variation on the almond flavor.

Tips for Perfect Shortbread Sticks

1. Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter is essential for achieving the right texture in shortbread. Cold butter won’t cream properly with the sugar, and the dough will be too stiff.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overmixing shortbread dough can lead to dense cookies. Mix just until the dough comes together.
3. Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before rolling out. This will make it easier to cut and shape the dough.
4. Bake Until Just Golden: Keep an eye on the shortbread sticks as they bake. You want them to be golden around the edges but not too dark, as shortbread can easily overbake.

Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon and Almond Shortbread Sticks

These cinnamon and almond shortbread sticks are a delightful combination of buttery richness, warm spices, and nutty crunch. The cinnamon adds a comforting spice, while the almonds provide the perfect texture contrast. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re serving them at a special occasion or enjoying them as an everyday treat, these shortbread sticks are sure to become a new favorite.

Conclusion

Cinnamon and almond shortbread sticks are the ultimate treat for those who love a buttery, crumbly cookie with a hint of spice. The warm cinnamon and crunchy almonds elevate the classic shortbread into something truly special. Make a batch today, and enjoy these sweet, fragrant treats with a cup of tea or as a snack anytime.