One of the things that my cousin Mona wanted to do while she was here was learn to bake our family’s famous almond cookies. So this morning, my mother, with all the ingredients poised and ready on the kitchen counter, set out to do what she does best: teach. In her classic teacherly voice, she began to pass down the storied recipe to Mona, who diligently took notes on her iPad.
A little bit of flour. A sprinkle of sugar. A dash of salt. It was all coming together.
As I watched my mother rattle off the recipe as easily as if she were reciting the alphabet, I realized just how therapeutic and cathartic making these cookies must be for her. As she mixes the dough, I imagine her thinking of her own mother and imagining her cooking the same cookies some 50 years ago in her own kitchen. These cookies keep my mom connected to the past, and keeps my grandmother’s memory alive.
I also realized something else this morning amidst the hum of the beaters and the sneaking of dough (because you’re really never too old for that, are you…?): How much times have changed since my grandmother’s cooking days. I pictured my cousin going home and baking these delicious cookies in her small New York City apartment. My grandmother probably followed a recipe that was handwritten on a small note card. Instead, my cousin will whip out her iPad. It’s sort of wild to think about all the changes, isn’t it?
What yummy recipes have been passed down through the generations in your family, friends? Here’s the recipe, if you’d like to try them. Send me a photo if you make them — I’d love to see! xoxo
Wendy says
Those look really (really) good! Thank you for sharing the recipe!
My mom was the best baker I've yet to meet. Of all the recipes that she passed down, her shortbread cookies are my favorite. Or maybe her chocolate pudding… Or her cheesecake. 😉
Jodi says
i just looked at the recipe and it is so simple!! is it really just sugar, butter, egg, almond extract, and salt? no flour or anything to make them rise? wow!!! i definitely will try these!
Melissa Blake says
Hi Jodi — after you mix the ingredients, add 3 cups of flour. And, as my mother just said, "don't over bake!" 🙂
Corrie Anne says
Oh yum! My mom always makes hot cross buns and homemade strudel so I've learned to make those.
Mal says
Yum! These look great
Mal @ The Chic Geek
Brandy says
The cookies looked great!! To bad they wouldn't travel well. I would have your mom send us some. Maybe I will try the recipe when I get a chance.
Lena at A Crimson Kiss says
What a fabulous party–and the best end result of any celebration!
Melissa Blake says
Corrie, your mom's recipes sound delicious!!
Melissa Blake says
Brandy, we'll definitely have to make some when you come visit! xoxo