- Can I use ground almonds instead of almond flour?
- Yes, but almond flour is finer, resulting in a more uniform dough. Ground almonds will give a more rustic texture.
- What cheese should I use?
- Use smooth Ricotta or Farmer's Cheese (drained) to avoid lumps in the dough.
Almond Flour Nankhatai (Indian Shortbread)
This Nankhatai variation builds on the nobility of almonds. The extra fat content and nutty flavor of almond flour make the dough even richer, while the addition of ricotta (a unique twist here!) adds a slight tang and moisture to the buttery base. The result is a cookie that is crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, the perfect companion for a cup of spicy chai.
Ingredients
3.5
oz
Almond Flour
3.5
oz
All-Purpose Flour
1.75
oz
Powdered Sugar
3.5
oz
Ricotta Cheese or Creamy Farmer's Cheese (drained)
3.5
oz
Softened Butter
1
tsp
Baking Powder
1
tsp
Vanilla Extract
1
pinch
Salt
1
large
Egg
2
tbsp
Sliced Almonds (for topping)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Allergen Information
Milk
Wheat
Egg
Tree Nuts (Almonds)
Instructions
1
✓
Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and the cheese, then beat until smooth.
Tip: The emulsion might look slightly curdled due to the moisture in the cheese, but the flour will bring it together.
2
✓
In another bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, vanilla, and salt.
Tip: Even distribution of baking powder ensures the cookies rise uniformly.
3
✓
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and quickly mix until a soft dough forms.
Tip: Do not overwork; the heat from your hands can melt the butter and make the dough sticky.
4
✓
Wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
Tip: Chilling allows the flour to hydrate and the fat to firm up, making it easier to shape.
5
✓
Form into balls, flatten slightly on the baking sheet, and press sliced almonds on top.
Tip: The almonds will toast during baking, adding extra flavor and crunch.
6
✓
Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheet as they are fragile when hot.
Tip: The structure stabilizes as they cool.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 3.5 oz Almond Flour
- 3.5 oz All-Purpose Flour
- 1.75 oz Powdered Sugar
- 3.5 oz Ricotta Cheese or Creamy Farmer's Cheese (drained)
- 3.5 oz Softened Butter
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 pinch Salt
- 1 large Egg
- 2 tbsp Sliced Almonds (for topping)