Quick, Customizable, Dairy and Gluten Free Almond Cookies

    

We almost always want something quick, healthy, and delicious. Sometimes, we want that something to be summery and light, and sometimes full of cozy spicy flavors. Does a unicorn of baking exist?

Method

Recipe: Almond Cookies (I only used the cookie portion, not the "nice cream")

Basic Procedure

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.

2. Divide and roll.

3. Ready, set, bake!

Customization:

• This recipe is naturally dairy free and gluten free, so no need to adapt for these dietary restrictions. 
• The recipe calls for melted coconut oil, but I have also used melted margarine. I have not tried it but I doubt regular oil would work, as both coconut oil and margarine have the benefit of being more solid at room temperature. 
• Flavors:
• In previous iterations, I have added chai spices for a fall twist.
• This time, earlier this year, I went for summer flavors. I added lemon zest to the cookies and added a lemon glaze on top. This glaze starts with powdered sugar, and adding lemon juice until the desired texture is reached. You can also add more melted margarine to thicken and enrich it a little more. 

    

Results 

My recipient seemed to enjoy them! 

Discussion

I think we confirmed our very scientific hypothesis that a baking unicorn does exist. These cookies are rich, delicious, and by some definitions, relatively healthy. These cookies come together quickly in a one bowl recipe with no need for creaming or chilling. They are naturally gluten and dairy free, and you can customize the flavorings by adding spices or mix-ins during baking, or toppings after cooling. 

The only limitation is that you have not tried this yet. What are you waiting for? How will you customize these yummy cookies for your tastes or season?