Hi Amy
Try it something like this ...
cream butter and sugar on speed 3 for 1 - 2 minutes then add rest of ingredients and mix on speed 3-4 (perhaps 30 seconds) depending on the mixture, you may need to use your spatular. Alternatively you could use your
function for about 30 seconds.
Let us know how you go.
If you want to use almond meal, then yes grind the almonds first and set aside. If you want to add chic chips, then add with the flour etc but use the
for mixing so you keep your chips whole
Hope this helps