Almond Cherry Cookies
Looking for a delightful treat that captivates your taste buds and pairs wonderfully with your afternoon coffee or tea? Let me introduce you to the scrumptious Almond Cherry Cookies! This recipe unveils a lovely combination of nutty almonds and sweet dried cherries that creates a textured, chewy cookie that’s perfect for sharing— or not! These cookies are an excellent choice for holiday gatherings, family brunches, or just a cozy evening at home.
Reasons to try it
Why should you indulge in baking Almond Cherry Cookies? Well, aside from their irresistible taste, this recipe is straightforward enough that even novice bakers can achieve stunning results. It’s also a budget-friendly option, relying on everyday ingredients that you probably already have at home. Plus, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends, or packing into lunchboxes!
“These Almond Cherry Cookies are now my go-to! They come out perfectly chewy and the combination is phenomenal!” — A satisfied baker
How this recipe comes together
Let’s get started with a quick overview of the process. This cookie recipe combines the warmth of creamed butter and sugars with the delightful crunch of almonds and the sweet bite of cherries. It’s as simple as mixing, baking, and enjoying! Here’s what you can expect from the recipe: a quick prep to warm up your kitchen, a delightful baking scent wafting through, and, in just about 30 minutes, golden-brown cookies ready to be devoured.
What you’ll need
To whip up these delicious Almond Cherry Cookies, gather these ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 1 cup dried cherries
For those looking for substitutions, feel free to use olive oil for a healthier fat or opt for dark chocolate chunks in place of dried cherries for a richer flavor.
Step-by-step instructions
Let’s transform those ingredients into mouthwatering cookies! Here’s a simple guide for making Almond Cherry Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this dry mixture into the creamed mixture until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the chopped almonds and dried cherries to ensure an even distribution.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, leaving room for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are beautifully golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Almond Cherry Cookies are versatile and can be savored in several ways! Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up. For a fun twist, consider making an ice cream sandwich with your favorite flavor in between two cookies!
How to store
To keep your Almond Cherry Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to savor them longer, freeze the cookies on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. They can stay good for up to three months. Just make sure to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few chef’s secrets to make your baking experience smooth and successful:
- Always measure your flour correctly; use a spoon to scoop and level it off for accuracy.
- Room temperature butter and eggs blend more smoothly, enhancing the texture of your cookies.
- Allow your cookies to cool slightly before moving them; they’ll be softer and less likely to break.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with your Almond Cherry Cookies! Try using roasted almonds for a richer flavor, or swap dried cherries for cranberries or raisins. For a festive touch, add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You could even drizzle some melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for added decadence!
Your questions answered
-
How long does it take to prepare and bake these cookies?
From start to finish, you can expect about 30 minutes of prep and baking time. -
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries?
Fresh cherries can add a delightful flavor but will change the texture, so consider using them in combination with dried cherries. -
What should I do if my cookies are too hard?
If the cookies turn out hard, it may be due to overbaking. Make sure to check them just before the baking time ends and remove them once the edges are golden.
Enjoy your baking journey, and may your Almond Cherry Cookies become a cherished favorite in your kitchen!
Almond Cherry Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Room temperature for easier incorporation.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar Packed firmly into the measuring cup.
- 2 large eggs Room temperature.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour Measure accurately.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped almonds Roasted almonds for added flavor (optional).
- 1 cup dried cherries Can be replaced with dark chocolate chunks.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually blend this dry mixture into the creamed mixture until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the chopped almonds and dried cherries.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, leaving room for spreading.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
