Almond Rose Cookies Recipe – Easy Indian Festive Treats

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Almond Rose Cookies Recipe – Easy Indian Festive Treats

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you love a good festive treat. And these Almond Rose Cookies? They’re perfect. I first made these for a small Diwali gathering, and they were a huge hit – delicate, fragrant, and just melt-in-your-mouth delicious. They’re surprisingly easy to make too, so let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These aren’t your average cookies. They’re subtly sweet, beautifully flavored with rose, and have a wonderful, slightly crumbly texture. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions. They’re quick to whip up, look incredibly pretty, and are guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Honestly, what’s not to love?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful cookies:

• 2 cup almond flour (about 150g)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (about 120g)
• 1 tbsp rose water (about 15ml)
• As needed warm water (approximately 2-3 tbsp)
• Few drops red food color (optional)
• As needed ghee for greasing
• As needed pistachios for garnish

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips to make sure your cookies turn out just right:

• Almond Flour: This is the star of the show! It gives these cookies their lovely texture and a subtle nutty flavor. I recommend using finely ground almond flour (also known as almond meal) for the best results. It’s naturally gluten-free, which is a bonus!
• Rose Water: Don’t skimp on the rose water! It’s what gives these cookies their signature fragrance. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online. A little goes a long way, so start with 1 tbsp and add more to taste.
• Ghee: Ghee adds a beautiful richness and traditional Indian flavor. If you don’t have ghee, you can substitute with melted butter, but ghee really elevates the taste.
• Food Colour: The red food colour is optional, but it gives the cookies a lovely festive look. Use gel food colour for the best results, as it won’t affect the dough’s consistency as much as liquid food colour.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get baking! It’s easier than you think.

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour and powdered sugar. Give it a good mix to make sure everything is evenly distributed.
2. Add the rose water and red food color (if using) to the dry ingredients. Mix well.
3. Microwave the mixture for just 30 seconds. This lightly binds the ingredients and makes the next step easier.
4. Now, gradually add warm water, about 2-3 teaspoons at a time. Knead the dough until it comes together into a smooth ball. You might need a little more or less water depending on the almond flour, so add it slowly!
5. Grease your hands with a little ghee – this prevents the dough from sticking.
6. Place the dough on a sheet of parchment paper. Roll it out to about 3-4mm (roughly ⅛ inch) thick.
7. Use a flower-shaped cookie cutter (or any shape you like!) to cut out the cookies.
8. Garnish each cookie with crushed pistachios. And that’s it! They’re ready to serve.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overwork the dough! Overkneading can make the cookies tough.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a little more almond flour. If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit more water.
• Chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes before rolling can make it easier to work with.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: Simply substitute the ghee with a vegan butter alternative.
• Gluten-Free: These are naturally gluten-free, thanks to the almond flour!
• Spice Level: For a little warmth, add a pinch of cardamom powder to the dough. My grandmother always added a tiny bit!
• Festival Adaptations:
  • Holi: Use brighter food coloring for a vibrant, festive look.
  • Diwali: Arrange the cookies in decorative patterns on a platter.
  • Eid: Add a sprinkle of silver leaf (vark) for an extra touch of elegance.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are lovely with a cup of chai or a glass of milk. They’re also a beautiful addition to any festive platter. I love serving them alongside other Indian sweets like ladoos and barfi.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. They might lose a little of their crispness over time, but they’ll still be delicious!

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• What type of almond flour works best for this recipe? Finely ground almond flour (also known as almond meal) is best. It creates a smoother texture.
• Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes! You can make the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling.
• How can I achieve a more vibrant pink color? Use gel food coloring instead of liquid food coloring. Gel coloring is more concentrated and won’t affect the dough’s consistency as much.
• What is the best way to store leftover cookies to maintain their freshness? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios for garnish? Absolutely! Almonds, cashews, or even a sprinkle of edible rose petals would be lovely.