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There’s something enchanting about the moment when you take that first bite of a freshly baked snack, don’t you think? While my friends rave about decadent chocolate desserts, I find my heart belonging to the delicate, sweet crunch of Dutch Almond Fingers. This delightful treat melds the rich nuttiness of almonds with a hint of citrus zest, wrapped in a buttery dough that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

When I first tried to recreate this classic recipe, I was amazed at how simple the process was. With just a handful of accessible ingredients, I discovered a way to elevate my afternoon tea sessions into something exceptional. These Almond Fingers are not just a delightful indulgence; they bring a touch of elegance to any occasion without demanding hours in the kitchen.

So, whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply spark joy in your day-to-day routine with homemade goodness, grab your apron and join me on this journey to create the perfect batch of Dutch Almond Fingers!

Why are Dutch Almond Fingers so beloved?

Delightful Flavor: The blend of almonds, vanilla, and citrus zest creates a uniquely rich taste that’s utterly irresistible.

Easy Preparation: With a straightforward method, even novice bakers will find success in whipping up these treats.

Versatile Snack: Perfect for tea time, celebrations, or just a sweet snack at home, these Almond Fingers fit any occasion effortlessly.

Impressive Presentation: The elegant, scored design topped with almond flakes looks beautiful on any dessert table.

No Special Equipment Needed: You won’t need fancy tools—just basic kitchen essentials to craft these delightful goodies!

Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a homemade treat, and this recipe is sure to impress friends and family alike.

Dutch Almond Fingers Ingredients

• The perfect combination for a delightful treat awaits you!

For the Dough

Plain Flour – 1 1/2 cups; forms the base for a tender, flaky texture.
Self Raising Flour – 1/2 cup; adds extra lift, making each bite light and airy.
Butter – 125g, room temperature, cut into cubes; provides a rich, buttery flavor essential for successful baking.
Caster Sugar – 60g; ensures a sweet touch without the gritty texture.
Egg Yolks – 2, lightly whisked; helps bind the dough and adds richness.
Vanilla Essence – 1 teaspoon; enhances the flavors, creating warmth in every bite.
Almond Essence – 1 teaspoon; intensifies the almond flavor, making these Dutch Almond Fingers truly special.
Cinnamon – 1/4 teaspoon; adds a hint of warmth and spice.
Cardamom – 1/4 teaspoon; brings a sophisticated, aromatic touch.
Finely grated zest of 1 Lemon or Orange – brightens and uplifts the flavors.

For the Glaze and Topping

Beaten Egg – for glazing; ensures a golden, shiny finish.
Almond Flakes or Whole Almonds – 50g; provides a gorgeous decorative touch and delightful crunch.

For the Marzipan Filling

Block of Ready to Roll Marzipan – 250g; adds a sweet and nutty layer that’s simply irresistible.

Enjoy gathering these ingredients as you prepare to create a batch of heartwarming Dutch Almond Fingers that will captivate your taste buds!

How to Make Dutch Almond Fingers

Mix the cubed butter and caster sugar in a mixer with a paddle attachment until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
Sift the plain flour and self-raising flour into the mixing bowl, then mix on low speed until the mixture resembles coarse sand. This is a crucial step for a tender texture.
Stir in the egg yolks, vanilla, cardamom, cinnamon, zest, and almond essence. Mix on low speed until you form a soft dough. If it feels too dry, add a splash of orange juice or milk until just right.
Chill the dough by placing it between two sheets of baking paper or plastic wrap, then use a rolling pin to flatten it into a rough rectangle. Wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for at least an hour—this helps the flavors develop beautifully.
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Line a baking tray with baking paper to prevent sticking.
Roll out the chilled dough onto a sheet of baking paper to create a 35 x 20 cm rectangle, approximately half a centimeter thick. If it’s sticky, don’t hesitate to dust with a little flour.
Knead the marzipan into a 30 x 6 cm shaped rectangle, making it pliable and easy to work with.
Position the marzipan in the middle of the dough. Fold the left side of the dough over the marzipan, followed by the right side, overlapping slightly to ensure it’s fully covered.
Turn the dough roll over so that the seal side is down, and the smooth side is up, then place it on the prepared baking tray.
Score the top of the roll with a small sharp knife, creating lines about 2 cm apart and 1 cm deep, but don’t cut all the way through. Brush the top with beaten egg, then gently press almond flakes onto the surface in a decorative pattern. Brush with egg again to add shine.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool on the tray.
Slice the almond fingers when they’re slightly cool, using the scored lines as a guide, and let them cool completely before serving.

Optional: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for a lovely finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Dutch Almond Fingers?

Looking to elevate your experience with these charming almond treats? Here are some delightful pairing suggestions to complement their sweet crunch.

Earl Grey Tea: The aromatic notes of bergamot in Earl Grey beautifully enhance the almond flavor, making this a perfect afternoon treat.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a tangy contrast to the sweetness, refreshing your palate with every bite.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream brings a creamy texture that balances the crispy fingers while adding richness to each taste.
Citrus Salad: A vibrant mix of citrus fruits can brighten your dessert table and adds a burst of freshness that pairs nicely with the almond essence.

Imagine serving these delightful Almond Fingers alongside a beautiful fruit salad—an inviting centerpiece that captures both the eye and the taste buds.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream lends a luxurious touch and contrasts wonderfully with the cookie’s textures.
Dessert Wine: Pairing with a light dessert wine can elevate your experience, highlighting the delightful nutty flavors while adding sophistication to your gathering.
Dark Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For a twist, provide a warm chocolate sauce for dipping, creating a decadently sweet and savory balance that everyone will love.

These pairings not only enhance the flavors of your Dutch Almond Fingers but create an inviting atmosphere perfect for gathering friends and loved ones around the table.

Tips for the Best Dutch Almond Fingers

Perfect Texture: Ensure your butter is at room temperature to create a light and fluffy dough. Cold butter will lead to a denser texture.
Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chilling step! This firms up the dough and makes it easier to roll, preventing it from sticking.
Marzipan Handling: Knead the marzipan until it’s smooth and soft before incorporating it into the dough. Avoid cracks that can affect the final look of your Dutch Almond Fingers.
Scoring Technique: Use a sharp knife when scoring the dough to get clean cuts. This makes for a more aesthetically pleasing presentation and helps with even baking.
Baking Watch: Keep an eye on the oven as baking time can vary slightly. Remove them once they reach a golden hue for the best flavor and texture.
Storage Tip: Store your Almond Fingers in an airtight container at room temperature. They maintain their delightful crunch for days!

How to Store and Freeze Dutch Almond Fingers

Room Temperature: Keep your Almond Fingers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful crunch.

Fridge: If you prefer, store them in the fridge for up to a week, but they may lose some of their crispness. Ensure they’re in a sealed container to avoid moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked Almond Fingers in a single layer, wrapped in plastic wrap, and then in foil, for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy.

Make Ahead Options

These Dutch Almond Fingers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by completing steps 1-4, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to develop beautifully while ensuring the dough stays fresh and ready to roll. Additionally, you can shape and score the dough before refrigerating, allowing you to bake these delightful treats fresh in the oven when you’re ready—ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests! When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven, brush with the egg wash, and pop them in for a delicious snack that will impress everyone without requiring much hands-on time.

Dutch Almond Fingers Variations

Unlock your creativity in the kitchen by exploring these delicious twists!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of plain and self-raising flours for a delicious alternative. You might want to add a bit more binding agent like xanthan gum.
Nut-Free: Swap out the almond essence and marzipan for sunflower seed butter, making a wholesome snack that’s free from nuts but still deliciously rich.
Citrus Burst: Experiment with the zest by using grapefruit or lime instead of lemon or orange for a unique and refreshing flavor profile.
Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the dough for a decadent chocolate-almond fusion. It’s a delightful unexpected surprise!
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger for a gentle kick that enhances the sweetness of the treat. This unexpected warmth will tantalize your taste buds!
Dried Fruits: Mix in 1/3 cup of finely chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries to add chews to each delightful bite, offering a beautiful contrast to the almond crunch.
Elegant Garnish: Instead of almond flakes, top with crushed pistachios for a stunning visual and a pop of vibrant color that enhances both flavor and presentation.
Low-Sugar: Substitute caster sugar with your favorite natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol to create a reduced-sugar version without sacrificing taste.

With these variations, you’ll find new ways to enjoy the comforting delight of Dutch Almond Fingers. Happy baking!

Dutch Almond Fingers Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Dutch Almond Fingers?
Absolutely! When selecting your citrus for zest, look for firm fruits that feel heavy for their size. The skin should be bright and free of dark spots or blemishes. For almonds, fresh, crunchy almonds with no signs of moisture or rancidity are key to elevating your recipe.

Can I store Dutch Almond Fingers, and for how long?
Certainly! Store your Almond Fingers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like them to maintain that delightful crunch, avoid refrigeration, as it can lead to moisture loss, making them softer.

How do I freeze Dutch Almond Fingers correctly?
Freezing is a fantastic way to keep the goodness of your Almond Fingers! Allow the baked treats to cool completely. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn, then place them in a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Whenever you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes.

What should I do if my dough is too dry?
Very! If your dough is feeling dry and crumbly, it’s a good idea to introduce a little moisture. Start by adding a teaspoon of fresh orange juice or milk, mixing until you achieve a soft dough. If needed, add a bit more, but do so gradually to avoid over-moistening.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with Dutch Almond Fingers?
Of course! These Almond Fingers contain eggs and may pose a problem for those with egg allergies. Additionally, if you’re catering to someone with nut allergies, be mindful that almonds are a key ingredient. For a vegan alternative, you could explore egg replacers, though the texture and taste may slightly differ.

What is the best way to prevent my Almond Fingers from sticking while rolling out the dough?
Absolutely! If your dough is sticking, flour your work surface and rolling pin generously, dusting as you go. Alternatively, roll the dough out between two sheets of parchment paper. This method prevents sticking and minimizes mess.