Looking for a lush, wholesome treat to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping you energized during those busy days? These Almond Cherry Cookies are just what you need!
Picture sinking your teeth into a perfectly soft cookie that balances the nuttiness of almonds with the sweet-tart flavor of cherries. The delightful crunch of almond pieces paired with the chewiness of dried cherries gives each bite a special touch that will have everyone reaching for just one more. These cookies are not only a delight to the taste buds but are also packed with wholesome goodness, making them a delightful treat for all ages.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 30 minutes Perfect for a quick baking session!
- Made with simple ingredients Most are pantry staples you already have.
- A family favorite Great for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea.
- Versatile snack Perfect for lunchboxes, parties, or cozy nights in.
Ingredients for Almond Cherry Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 1 cup dried cherries
Step-by-Step Instructions for Almond Cherry Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped almonds and dried cherries until evenly distributed.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set.
- Cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the chilling If the dough seems too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before scooping.
- Toast the almonds Lightly toasting the almonds before mixing enhances their flavor.
- Experiment with dried fruit Feel free to mix in other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a different spin.
Substitutions & Variations of Almond Cherry Cookies
- To Make It Vegan/Gluten-Free: Substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
- Variations: Add a splash of almond extract for more intense almond flavor or swirl in some chocolate chips for extra indulgence!
Storage Instructions for Almond Cherry Cookies
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: These delightful cookies freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate for up to 2 days or scoop and freeze uncooked dough balls for fresh cookies whenever you like!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Almond Cherry Cookies
- Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried? Fresh cherries have high moisture content, so it’s best to stick with dried ones for this recipe.
- How can I make these cookies chewier? For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them and let them cool on the baking sheet.
- Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! These cookies are great for sharing, so making a larger batch is perfect for gatherings.
Final Toughts
A batch of Almond Cherry Cookies can brighten up your day and fill your home with warm, sweet aromas. Whether you’re baking for a snack or a special occasion, these cookies will surely delight everyone who tries them. So grab your ingredients and bake up some happiness! We’d love to hear how your baking adventure goes, so don’t forget to leave a comment and a star rating!
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Delightful Almond Cherry Cookies
Treat yourself to these chewy Almond Cherry Cookies, where nutty almonds meet sweet-tart cherries, perfect for energizing your busy days.
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 1 cup dried cherries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped almonds and dried cherries until evenly distributed.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set.
- Cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
Chill the dough if too sticky and consider toasting the almonds for added flavor. Experiment with different dried fruits for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian