Vanilla Crescent Cookies with Bourbon Vanilla

Name: Vanilla Crescent Cookies with Bourbon Vanilla
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup ground almonds; 1 teaspoon bourbon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon bourbon vanilla powder

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delightfully buttery and crumbly, these Vanilla Crescent Cookies are infused with the rich flavor of bourbon vanilla, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T18:37:50.735Z

These Vanilla Crescent Cookies are a traditional treat in many cultures, often enjoyed during the holidays. With the addition of bourbon vanilla, these cookies take on an exquisite flavor that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for gifting or indulging in yourself!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich vanilla flavor enhanced by bourbon vanilla
Melts in your mouth with a delicate texture
Perfectly sweet with a hint of nuttiness
Great for sharing during holidays or special occasions

      

The Magic of Bourbon Vanilla

Bourbon vanilla, derived from the vanilla bean plant primarily grown in Madagascar, brings an exquisite depth of flavor to these cookies. Unlike regular vanilla extract, bourbon vanilla has a richer and more complex profile, characterized by warm, sweet notes that elevate the sweetness of the cookies. This unique ingredient not only enhances the overall taste but also adds a luxurious touch, making these crescent cookies stand out at any gathering.

When baking, quality matters, and using high-grade bourbon vanilla can make a significant difference. Its aromatic essence melds beautifully with the buttery dough, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience. The subtle hints of caramel and spice in bourbon vanilla make it the perfect complement to the nutty flavor of ground almonds, creating a harmonious balance that is simply irresistible.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Vanilla Crescent Cookies with Bourbon Vanilla are incredibly versatile, making them ideal for various occasions. Whether it's a festive holiday gathering, a cozy tea party, or simply a treat for yourself, these cookies fit right in. Their elegant crescent shape and dusting of powdered sugar give them a sophisticated appearance that is sure to impress guests and loved ones alike.

Furthermore, these cookies are easy to make in large batches, making them perfect for sharing. Package them in decorative tins or boxes for thoughtful gifts during the holiday season or as a sweet surprise for friends and family. They also make a lovely addition to dessert tables, paired with a cup of coffee or tea, adding a touch of sweetness to any gathering.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure the best results while baking these Vanilla Crescent Cookies, it's essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially when it comes to flour and powdered sugar. Additionally, allow your butter to soften at room temperature for optimal creaming. This step is crucial for achieving a light and airy texture in your cookies.

When shaping the cookies, try to maintain a consistent size for even baking. This will ensure that all cookies come out perfectly baked at the same time. Also, keep an eye on them while they are in the oven; they can go from perfectly golden to overbaked quite quickly. Enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake!

Ingredients

For the Cookies

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup ground almonds
1 teaspoon bourbon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For Dusting

1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon bourbon vanilla powder

Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl for a smooth dough.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the bourbon vanilla extract and salt. Gradually add the flour and ground almonds, mixing until a dough forms.

Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the dough out of the refrigerator and shape it into small crescent shapes, about 1 inch long. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

Dust with Sugar

While still warm, roll the cookies in a mixture of powdered sugar and bourbon vanilla powder. Let cool completely on a wire rack.

Enjoy your delicious Vanilla Crescent Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your Vanilla Crescent Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, although they are likely to be devoured much sooner! If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours. You can also re-dust them with powdered sugar for that freshly baked look and taste!

Customizing Your Cookies

Feel free to experiment with this recipe to make it your own. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm spice note that beautifully complements the bourbon vanilla. You can also try substituting half of the ground almonds with other nuts, such as hazelnuts or walnuts, for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a chocolatey twist, consider incorporating mini chocolate chips into the dough.

Another fun variation is to dip the cookies in melted chocolate after they've cooled. This adds a decadent touch and pairs wonderfully with the vanilla flavor. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and enjoy the process!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of bourbon vanilla?

Yes, you can use regular vanilla extract, but bourbon vanilla adds a richer flavor.

→ How do I store leftover cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the cookies before baking for up to 3 months. Just bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for ground almonds?

You can use ground hazelnuts or leave them out for a nut-free version.