Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that satisfies your chocolate cravings without the guilt of a full batch, then you’ve come to the right place! These Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies are my go-to when I need a quick and delightful dessert. They perfectly blend chocolate, coconut, and almonds into each bite, making them an irresistible option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, so you can indulge without a massive cleanup!

What makes this recipe truly special is how it brings together flavors that remind me of my favorite candy bar but in a homemade cookie form. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or surprising friends at a get-together, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Whipping up these cookies takes just 27 minutes from start to finish!
• Perfectly Portion-Controlled: This small batch yields 12 cookies—just enough to satisfy your sweet tooth without leftovers.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Kids and adults alike will love the classic combination of chocolate, coconut, and almonds.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Dough can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge for a few days.
• Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins for even more fun!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies is simple! You only need a handful of wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need:

For the Cookie Dough

• 1.125 cups all-purpose flour
• 0.5 tsp baking soda
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 0.5 cup butter (softened (1 stick))
• 0.33 cup granulated sugar
• 0.33 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 large egg

For the Mix-Ins

• 1.5 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes (shredded coconut)
• 0.75 cup sliced almonds

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Extra Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Use Different Chocolate: Dark chocolate chips can add a richer taste if you prefer something less sweet.
• Coconut Alternatives: Try using unsweetened coconut flakes for a less sugary version.
• Swap in Nut Butter: For a nutty twist, replace half the butter with almond or cashew butter.

How to Make Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper will make cleanup a breeze and help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using either a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2–3 minutes. Creaming incorporates air into the mixture, which helps create soft cookies.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the vanilla extract and egg to your creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined while scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. This helps ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies! Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened coconut flakes, and sliced almonds with a spatula.

Step 6: Scoop onto Baking Sheets

Using a scoop or tablespoon measuring spoon, drop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart since they will spread while baking.

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

Bake for 9–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown but the centers still look slightly underdone. This ensures your cookies remain chewy!

Step 8: Cool Down and Enjoy!

Let your cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Pair them with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage for an extra treat! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days—if they last that long!

Pro Tips for Making Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies

Baking cookies can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can take your Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies to the next level!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your butter and egg are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter, leading to fluffier cookies.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Gently folding in your dry ingredients prevents gluten from developing too much, which keeps your cookies tender and chewy.
• Chill the dough if time allows: If you have an extra 30 minutes, chilling the dough can enhance the flavors and prevent spreading during baking.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time. You want them to look slightly underdone in the center for that perfect chewy texture!
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to get creative! Try adding mini marshmallows or swapping out almonds for walnuts to customize your cookie experience.

How to Serve Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies

These Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Presenting them well can elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Drizzle of chocolate: A simple drizzle of melted semi-sweet chocolate on top adds a beautiful finish and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Toasted coconut flakes: Sprinkle some toasted coconut on top for added texture and an extra hint of coconut flavor.

Side Dishes

• Cold glass of almond milk: This nutty drink complements the almond flavor in the cookies while providing a refreshing contrast.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cookies. Consider using tropical fruits like pineapple or mango for a delightful pairing.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside warm cookies creates a decadent dessert experience.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs perfectly with these cookies, making them ideal for an afternoon snack or cozy gathering.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to enjoy your Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a delightful treat without the hassle of large batches. Whether you’re planning for a gathering or just want to enjoy fresh cookies throughout the week, here’s how to store and manage your cookies.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, consider placing parchment paper between layers of cookies.

Freezing

• Allow baked cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.
• If using the microwave, heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat!

FAQs

Have questions about making these delicious Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies? Here are some common queries that might help!

Can I use different types of chocolate chips in Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies?

Absolutely! You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips based on your preference. Each variation will bring its own unique flavor!

What should I do if I don’t have sliced almonds?

If you don’t have sliced almonds on hand, you can replace them with chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. Alternatively, simply omit them if you prefer a nut-free cookie.

How do I make Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies gluten-free?

For gluten-free Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1. Check that your chocolate chips and coconut flakes are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them all by yourself, I’m sure these treats will make your day a little sweeter. Happy baking!