Almond Pistachio Crescent Cookies are delicate, buttery, nut-rich cookies shaped into elegant crescent moons. They combine the deep flavor of ground almonds with the vibrant, earthy taste of pistachios. These cookies melt in your mouth, leaving a subtle sweetness and a warm nutty aroma. Unlike classic vanilla crescents, this version highlights the natural flavor of nuts with a touch of almond extract that enhances the overall taste. They are perfect for holidays, tea time, gifting, or simply enjoying with a hot drink.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup (100 g) finely ground almonds
- ½ cup (60 g) finely ground pistachios
- 1 ¾ cups (about 220 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 dash of almond extract
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the baking equipment
Preheat your oven to a moderate baking temperature (around 170–180°C / 340–355°F).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground almonds, ground pistachios, flour, sugar, and salt if using.
Mix well until the nuts and sugar are evenly distributed in the flour.
3. Add the almond extract
Add a small dash of almond extract to the dry mixture.
This step enhances the nutty aroma and gives the cookies their characteristic flavor.
4. Form the dough
Using your hands or a spatula, bring the mixture together to form a dough.
It may feel slightly crumbly at first, but keep pressing and mixing until it holds together.
The dough should be soft, easy to shape, and not too sticky.
5. Shape the crescents
Take small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each).
Roll them gently into small logs, then curve the ends to create a crescent (moon) shape.
Place the crescents on the prepared baking tray, spacing them slightly apart.
6. Bake the cookies
Place the tray in the oven and bake until the cookies are lightly golden on the edges.
The goal is a pale cookie with only a hint of color — they should not brown too much.
Baking time is usually around 12–15 minutes, depending on your oven.
7. Cool before serving
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a rack.
They will become firmer and more delicate as they cool.
Flavor and Texture
These cookies are naturally crumbly, soft, and buttery thanks to the ground nuts.
The combination of almonds and pistachios gives them a beautiful layered flavor — sweet, earthy, and aromatic.
The almond extract adds a final perfume that makes every bite fragrant and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy them with hot tea, coffee, or mint tea.
- Serve them at brunch, holiday gatherings, or as part of a dessert platter.
- Dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a more festive look (optional).
Storage Tips
- Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container.
- Keep them in a cool, dry place — they stay fresh for several days.
- You can also freeze the shaped, unbaked crescents and bake them later.
Baker’s Tips
- For the best texture, grind almonds and pistachios very finely.
- Do not over-bake; light golden edges are enough.
- If the dough feels too dry, you can add 1–2 teaspoons of soft butter to help bind it.
- If the dough feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before shaping.