Apricot Almond Spring Cookies

Name: Apricot Almond Spring Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 1 large egg; 1 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/2 cup chopped almonds

Highlighted under: World Feast | Global Banquet

When spring arrives, I love baking these Apricot Almond Spring Cookies. The delightful combination of sweet apricots and crunchy almonds creates a cookie that is both refreshing and satisfying. I enjoy experimenting with different flavorings, but this pairing truly captures the essence of spring. Each bite is fragrant and nutty, making these cookies perfect for gatherings or just a personal treat with a cup of tea. I frequently share this recipe with friends, and it never fails to impress!

Created by

Mia

Last updated on 2026-02-15T15:06:19.339Z

I really love how easy these Apricot Almond Spring Cookies are to prepare. The texture is wonderfully chewy, thanks to the dried apricots, while the almonds add a satisfying crunch. Using almond extract enhances the almond flavor even more, balancing with the apricot sweetness perfectly. I've experimented with adding a pinch of orange zest, and it elevates the cookies to a new level!

Preparing these cookies is not just about combining ingredients; it's a calming ritual for me. I find that letting the dough rest for a bit before baking results in thicker cookies with a more pronounced flavor. If you’re looking for a cookie that embodies spring's spirit, look no further!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors
Chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with crunchy almonds
Great for spring gatherings or as a delightful treat anytime

      

Ingredient Insights

The star ingredients in Apricot Almond Spring Cookies are, of course, the dried apricots and chopped almonds. Dried apricots add natural sweetness and a chewy texture, which perfectly balances with the crunch of the almonds. When selecting apricots, look for those that are plump and vibrant in color; they should not be overly dried out. If you're in a pinch, you could substitute apricots with other dried fruits like peach or mango, but apricots truly enhance the spring vibe.

Using unsalted butter in this recipe is crucial as it allows you to control the saltiness of the cookies. This lets the sweet flavors of the sugars and the toasted notes of the almonds shine through without being overpowered. For a dairy-free option, you can replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute, though this may slightly alter the flavor and texture. Ensure it’s also softened for easy creaming.

Baking Technique Tips

When creaming the butter and sugars, aim for a light and fluffy texture, which should take about 3-5 minutes when using an electric mixer. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the dough, resulting in lighter cookies. If you fail to achieve sufficient fluffiness, the cookies may turn out denser than intended. Mixing in the egg and extract until smooth ensures even flavor distribution throughout every cookie.

One important aspect is to monitor the cookies as they bake. Since oven temperatures can vary, start checking for doneness at the 12-minute mark. You want to pull them out when the edges are golden brown while the centers appear slightly soft. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet due to residual heat, creating the perfect chewy texture. Overbaking can lead to hard cookies, so keep an eye on them!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Apricot Almond Spring Cookies:

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 large egg
1 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/2 cup chopped almonds

With these ingredients at hand, you'll be ready to bake delicious cookies!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect Apricot Almond Spring Cookies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Egg and Extract

Mix in the egg and almond extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Fold in Apricots and Almonds

Gently fold in the chopped apricots and almonds until evenly dispersed.

Scoop and Bake

Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Apricot Almond Spring Cookies!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle melted white chocolate on top of the cooled cookies.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These cookies can last up to a week when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, maintaining their chewy texture and flavor. If you want to make them ahead of time, you can freeze the dough. Scoop the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a zip-top bag and keep them in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

For those who enjoy fresh cookies anytime, I recommend making a double batch of the dough. You can bake one batch immediately while keeping the second batch ready to go in the freezer. This way, you'll always have freshly baked cookies on hand for unexpected guests or cozy evenings.

Serving Suggestions

These Apricot Almond Spring Cookies are delightful on their own, but you could also serve them with a soft cheese, like cream cheese or goat cheese, for a sweet and savory twist. A drizzle of honey over the cheese can complement the flavors beautifully, making for an elegant appetizer or snack. Alternatively, pair these cookies with a light, floral tea or a robust coffee to accentuate the nutty and fruity flavors.

For a fun variation, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies. This adds a rich contrast to the sweetness of the apricots and will definitely impress at your spring gatherings. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even incorporate some lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus note that pairs wonderfully with the almond flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?

Fresh apricots contain more moisture, so it's best to stick with dried for this recipe.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the dough or the baked cookies. Just ensure they are well wrapped.

→ What can I use instead of almonds?

Feel free to replace almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor.