Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies

Introduction

Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies are a delightful treat inspired by the classic Almond Joy candy bar. These cookies combine chewy coconut, crunchy almonds, and rich chocolate into a soft, irresistible cookie. Made in small batches, they’re perfect for when you want a sweet indulgence without baking a large quantity.

I first made these when I was craving something sweet but didn’t want to bake a huge batch. The kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of coconut and chocolate, and the cookies turned out to be a huge hit with my family. What’s great about these cookies is how easy they are to prepare. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that’s full of texture and flavor, from the chewy coconut to the crunchy almonds and smooth chocolate.

These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re making a treat for yourself or sharing with friends and family. They’re an ideal dessert for those who love the combination of coconut and chocolate, and they’ll be gone before you know it!

Perfect for:

• Small gatherings
• Quick dessert cravings
• Coconut and almond fans
• Gifting to a loved one
• A sweet snack with coffee or tea

Why You’ll Love This Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies

Here’s why Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies are so special:

• Rich Flavors: The combination of chocolate, coconut, and almonds creates a delicious flavor balance.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with coconut and chocolate chunks in every bite.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Small Batch: Makes just the right amount for a treat without leftovers.
• Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or add more mix-ins to suit your taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 cookies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories per cookie
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 14g, Fat: 9g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies:

• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30g) brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (20g) shredded sweetened coconut
• 1/4 cup (40g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
• 2 tablespoons (15g) chopped almonds

Ingredient Highlights

• Shredded Coconut: Provides the signature chewy texture and coconut flavor reminiscent of Almond Joy candy.
• Chopped Almonds: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the cookies.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Ensures a rich chocolatey taste without being overly sweet.
• Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and enhances the chewy texture of the cookies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies:

Prepare the Cookie Dough:

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a medium mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Fold in Mix-Ins: Gently fold in the shredded coconut, chocolate chips, and chopped almonds.

Shape and Bake the Cookies:

5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Portion the Dough: Scoop 1 1/2-tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underdone but will firm up as the cookies cool.
8. Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies

Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies are versatile and can be served in many ways:

• With Coffee or Tea: Pair the cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack.
• As a Dessert: Enjoy these cookies on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• For Gifting: Package the cookies in a small decorative box or bag for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Cookie Sandwich: Spread a layer of chocolate or coconut frosting between two cookies for an extra indulgent treat.

Additional Tips for Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies

Here are some tips to ensure your Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies turn out perfectly:

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until the ingredients are combined to avoid tough cookies.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure the shredded coconut and almonds are fresh for the best flavor.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): If your dough feels too soft, chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
• Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for small-batch recipes.

Recipe Variations for Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies

Here are 10 variations you can try for Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies:

1. Dark Chocolate Almond Joy Cookies: Use dark chocolate chunks for a richer flavor.
2. White Chocolate Almond Joy Cookies: Substitute white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
3. Almond Butter Joy Cookies: Add a tablespoon of almond butter to the dough for extra almond flavor.
4. Gluten-Free Almond Joy Cookies: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
5. Vegan Almond Joy Cookies: Replace the butter with vegan butter and the egg yolk with a flaxseed or chia egg.
6. Double Chocolate Almond Joy Cookies: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate base.
7. Caramel Almond Joy Cookies: Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked cookies for an indulgent finish.
8. No-Bake Almond Joy Cookies: Skip the baking and shape the dough into bite-sized balls, refrigerating until firm.
9. Mint Almond Joy Cookies: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough for a refreshing flavor.
10. Spiced Almond Joy Cookies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced twist.

Freezing and Storage for Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies

• Freezing the Dough: Scoop the cookie dough into portions and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing the Cookies: Place baked and cooled cookies in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
• Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Special Equipment for Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies easier:

• Mixing Bowls – For combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Electric Hand Mixer – To mix dough quickly and evenly, especially for a small batch.
• Cookie Scoop – Helps portion dough into uniform balls for consistent baking.
• Parchment Paper – To line your baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent cookies from sticking.
• Baking Sheets – A flat surface for baking cookies.
• Cooling Rack – Allows cookies to cool evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy.
• Measuring Cups – Essential for precise ingredient measurement.
• Measuring Spoons – For measuring smaller amounts of ingredients like baking soda and vanilla.
• Microwave-safe Bowl – To melt the chocolate for coating or drizzling.
• Sharp Knife – For chopping almonds or coconut if using larger pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions for Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies

1. Can I double this recipe?
   Yes, you can double the ingredients to make a larger batch if needed.
2. Can I use unsweetened coconut?
   Yes, but the cookies may be less sweet. You can compensate by adding an extra tablespoon of sugar.
3. What can I use instead of almonds?
   You can substitute chopped pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts for almonds.
4. Can I make this dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
5. Can I make these cookies without coconut?
   While coconut is a key ingredient, you can omit it and replace it with additional chocolate chips or nuts for a different flavor.

Print

Conclusion

Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth with minimal effort. Packed with the classic flavors of chocolate, coconut, and almonds, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this small-batch recipe ensures a fresh, homemade treat every time.

This recipe is as easy as it is delicious, making it perfect for everything from an afternoon snack to a special treat for friends and family. These cookies are sure to become a favorite, delivering the perfect balance of chocolatey sweetness with every bite.

I’d love to see how your Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!