Twisted Christmas Cookies with Almond & Citrus Icing | BiteTide

If you’re on the hunt for a festive treat that blends unique texture with vibrant flavors, you’ve found it! These Twisted Christmas Cookies with Almond & Citrus Icing | BiteTide are nothing short of magical, combining a tender, buttery cookie base with a zesty, creamy icing that bursts with almond and citrus notes. Perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting, this recipe is sure to become your new seasonal favorite, bringing warm smiles and sweet memories with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Holiday Cheer in Every Bite: These cookies bring together classic festive flavors with a fresh twist.
• Perfect Texture: The unique twisting method creates a delightful crunch combined with tender crumb.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible even for baking newbies.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The almond and citrus icing balances sweetness and zing beautifully.
• Great for Gifting: Eye-catching and delicious, they’re perfect for homemade presents.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Twisted Christmas Cookies with Almond & Citrus Icing | BiteTide lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a specific role: from the rich butter that creates that melt-in-your-mouth texture to the fresh citrus that brightens up the icing. Gathering these essentials will set you up for success.

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for structure, providing the perfect balance between crisp and tender.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve a buttery, flaky texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and aids in caramelization during baking.
• Eggs: Binds ingredients and contributes to the cookie’s moisture.
• Almond Extract: Offers a subtle, nutty aroma that complements the citrus tones.
• Powdered Sugar: Key for the icing’s smooth, creamy texture.
• Fresh Citrus Juice and Zest (Lemon & Orange): Provides a bright, refreshing zing in the icing.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and rounds out the flavors.
• Baking Powder: Ensures just enough lift for a light, airy cookie.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.

Variations for Twisted Christmas Cookies with Almond & Citrus Icing | BiteTide

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can tailor it to your taste buds or dietary preferences. Whether you want to bring in new flavors or accommodate allergies, these variations make your holiday baking fun and flexible.

• Nut-Free Icing: Swap almond extract for vanilla or coconut extract to avoid nut allergens.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a trusted gluten-free flour blend to maintain texture without sacrificing taste.
• Spiced Citrus Twist: Add ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor dimension.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle over the iced cookies for an extra festive look.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs for a plant-based holiday delight.

How to Make Twisted Christmas Cookies with Almond & Citrus Icing | BiteTide

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, combining to form a smooth dough.

Step 2: Shape the Twists

Divide the dough into smaller portions. Roll each portion into long, even ropes about 1/2 inch thick. Pinch two ropes together at one end, twisting them gently along their length, then pinch the other end to seal. Place each twisted cookie onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space for expansion.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the twisted cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on wire racks before icing.

Step 4: Prepare the Almond & Citrus Icing

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon and orange juice, almond extract, and citrus zest until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more juice or powdered sugar as needed for a glossy, drizzle-ready texture.

Step 5: Ice the Cookies

Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle the almond & citrus icing generously over each cookie. Let the icing set at room temperature before serving or storing.

Pro Tips for Making Twisted Christmas Cookies with Almond & Citrus Icing | BiteTide

• Chill the Dough: Keep the dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before shaping to make twisting easier.
• Consistent Rope Size: Rolling ropes of equal thickness ensures even baking.
• Use Fresh Citrus: Freshly squeezed juice and zest pack more flavor and intensity than bottled options.
• Don’t Overbake: Pull cookies out when edges are lightly golden to keep them tender inside.
• Allow Icing to Set Thoroughly: This prevents smudging and gives a beautiful finish perfect for gifting.

How to Serve Twisted Christmas Cookies with Almond & Citrus Icing | BiteTide

Garnishes

Sprinkle finely chopped toasted almonds or edible gold dust on top of the icing for a dazzling, festive presentation that adds texture and sparkle.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside warm spiced cider, hot chocolate, or a fragrant mulled wine to complement the citrusy almond notes perfectly during holiday gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with a bright ribbon or stack them in festive tins layered with colorful parchment paper for gifting or table displays.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Twisted Christmas Cookies with Almond & Citrus Icing | BiteTide in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

Freeze un-iced twisted cookie dough portions by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer bag. Thaw completely in the fridge before baking and icing for later enjoyment.

Reheating

If you want to warm up iced cookies, heat gently in a low-temperature oven (around 275°F or 135°C) for just a few minutes but avoid microwaving to prevent melting the icing.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be made and frozen ahead, while baked cookies keep well for several days when stored properly, making holiday prep stress-free.

What can I substitute if I don’t have almond extract?

Vanilla extract works well as a substitute, offering warmth and depth without overpowering the citrus flavors.

Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?

The icing contains almond extract, so for nut allergies, you should omit the almond extract or replace it with a nut-free flavor like vanilla or coconut.

How do I prevent the icing from being too runny?

Add powdered sugar gradually and whisk well until you reach a thick but pourable consistency to avoid overly thin icing.

What is the best way to twist the dough?

Roll equal-sized ropes and gently twist them together without pulling too tightly to maintain a pretty spiral and even cooking.

Final Thoughts

Your holiday baking just got a whole lot brighter with these delightful Twisted Christmas Cookies with Almond & Citrus Icing | BiteTide. They’re not just cookies; they’re joyful little bundles of flavor and festivity that bring people together. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to a new Christmas favorite that is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat!

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