Cherry Almond Cookies: Easy Recipe for Delightful Treats

Name: Cherry Almond Cookies: Easy Recipe for Delightful Treats
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dried cherries, chopped; 1/2 cup sliced almonds

Sophie

November 3, 2025

Introduction to Cherry Almond Cookies

Why Homemade Cookies are the Best

There’s something magical about homemade cookies, especially when you’re talking about delightful cherry almond cookies. The aroma fills your kitchen, wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia. Store-bought options can never quite compare to the joy of crafting your treats from scratch. You choose the ingredients, ensuring they’re fresh and flavorful, leading to cookies that not only taste better but also pack in more love. Plus, baking at home allows for some creative freedom—feel free to adjust the sweetness or toss in some extra cherries if you’d like!

Did you know that homemade cookies not only taste better, but they can also be a healthier alternative? According to experts, making cookies at home allows you to control the sugar and fat content, which can lead to lighter, less guilt-inducing indulgences (more on that from Healthline).

The Joy of Baking with Friends or Family

One of the most heartwarming aspects of baking cherry almond cookies is the opportunity to involve your loved ones. Gather friends or family and make it a fun, collaborative event! Cooking together not only deepens connections but also creates unforgettable memories—think of laughter, shared tips, and the inevitable batter fights. As you measure flour, chop cherries, or mix ingredients, you’ll find that the process enriches your relationships, instilling a sense of teamwork and accomplishment.

Baking can also be a soothing ritual. It gives you a reason to disconnect from screens and engage creatively. The satisfaction of sitting down to enjoy a batch of fresh cookies made together is truly unparalleled. Consider making it a regular affair—maybe once a month? You can rotate who picks the recipe, ensuring variety and excitement.

Can you picture the joy on someone’s face when they take that first bite of a freshly baked cherry almond cookie? It’s this simple pleasure that makes baking worth the effort. So, round up your favorite people, put on your aprons, and get ready to whip up some delightful treats together.

Ready to turn on the oven? Let’s dive into the recipe for these delicious cookies and create some fluffy, cherry-filled memories!

Ingredients for Cherry Almond Cookies

Essential Ingredients for the Base

To create the perfect cherry almond cookies, you’ll need a blend of staple ingredients that provide a delicious foundation. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your cookie. Aim for about 2 cups for a good texture.
Sugar: Both granulated and brown sugar can add sweetness and moisture; about 1 cup of each should do.
Butter: Unsalted butter, at room temperature, will lend richness. Use about 1 cup.
Eggs: One large egg helps bind everything together.
Baking soda: Just a teaspoon will give your cookies the lift they need.
Almond extract: The star flavor that makes them cherry almond cookies—don’t skip this!

Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor

Want to take your cherry almond cookies to the next level? Consider these optional ingredients that can enhance taste and texture:

Chopped almonds: About half a cup for an extra crunch.
Dried cherries: Substitute or complement fresh cherries for a sweeter profile.
Cinnamon: A teaspoon can add warmth and depth.
Chocolate chips: A handful can give your cookies delightful sweetness.

Experimenting with these optional elements lets you tailor your cherry almond cookies to your taste. Why not try a batch with chopped cherries and almonds and see what your friends say? For more tips on ingredient selection, check out the Food Network for inspiration on baking essentials! Happy baking!

Preparing Cherry Almond Cookies

Making your own cherry almond cookies is not just about baking; it’s an experience loaded with delightful aromas and flavors that fill your home. These cookies are perfect for any occasion because they’re easy to make and irresistibly tasty. Let’s get started!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you dive into the fun part, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for your cherry almond cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
¾ cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons almond extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup dried cherries, roughly chopped
½ cup sliced almonds
½ cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)

Having everything at hand makes the process smoother and helps you avoid any frustrating last-minute runs to the store.

Prepare the Cherries

Dried cherries add a wonderful chewiness and depth of flavor to your cookies. If you’re using unsweetened dried cherries, soaking them in warm water for about 15 minutes can help plump them up. Not only does this improve texture, but it also enhances sweetness, making your cherry almond cookies even more delightful. Drain and chop the cherries roughly before adding them to your batter.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, you’ll combine your dry ingredients. Whisk together:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt

Whisking these together ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed, which is crucial for even rising. Plus, it breathes air into your flour, creating a lighter texture in your cookies.

Cream the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer. Add in the eggs one at a time, and stir in the almond extract. The combination of butter and almond extract is where the magic begins. It’s simply divine.

Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time for the best part—combining the wet and dry ingredients! Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamy concoction, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. Fold in the prepared cherries and sliced almonds. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also add some white chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness.

Chill the Cookie Dough

Chilling your dough is a game-changer. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld together and solidifies the fats in the dough, yielding softer cookies that hold their shape when baked.

Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheets

While you wait for the dough to chill, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This also ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.

Portion and Bake the Cookies

Once the dough has chilled, scoop out small balls (about two tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheets—spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers might look a little soft, but they will firm up as they cool.

Drizzle with White Chocolate

For that touch of flair, melt some white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies. This not only makes them visually stunning but adds a sweet contrast to the nuttiness of the almonds and the tart cherries.

And there you have it—your homemade cherry almond cookies, ready to be devoured! Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying them all by yourself, these cookies are sure to bring joy into your kitchen. Enjoy your baking adventure!

For more details about baking time and tips on how to store your cookies, check out Baking Science for expert insights!

Variations on Cherry Almond Cookies

When it comes to cherry almond cookies, there’s room to get creative! Here are two delicious variations that’ll keep your taste buds excited.

Chocolate Cherry Almond Cookies

If you’re a fan of chocolate, why not elevate your cherry almond cookies by incorporating some rich, dark chocolate? Simply add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough! The combination of cherries, almonds, and chocolate creates a heavenly flavor explosion.

To amp up the depth of flavor, consider using dark chocolate or even cherry-infused chocolate chips. This variation is perfect for those special occasions or whenever you’re just craving something a bit more indulgent. For a decorative touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the baked cookies before they cool. You can find a wonderful selection of chocolate types at Ghirardelli!

Gluten-Free Cherry Almond Cookies

For those with gluten sensitivities, making gluten-free cherry almond cookies is a breeze. Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour; many blends provide the right balance of texture and taste, without compromising your favorite flavors.

In case you’re curious, a study by the National Institutes of Health indicates that about 1 in 100 people have celiac disease, making gluten-free options increasingly popular. You can also add almond flour for a nutty flavor boost, or substitute oats for a delightful chewiness. Encouraging baking enthusiasts to experiment with gluten-free flours has been key to creating delicious treats that everyone can enjoy!

Keep these variations in mind the next time you bake your batch of cherry almond cookies, and share your experience—what’s your favorite twist?

Baking notes for Cherry Almond Cookies

Common mistakes to avoid

When you’re whipping up a batch of cherry almond cookies, it’s easy to run into a few pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the dry ingredients are combined.
Incorrect measurements: Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy, especially when it comes to flour and sugar.
Ignoring chill time: Patience pays off! Chilling the dough helps the flavors develop and keeps them from spreading too much in the oven.

Tips for achieving the perfect texture

To get that delightful chewiness paired with a crisp edge in your cherry almond cookies, follow these quick tips:

Use fresh cherries: Opt for ripe, sweet cherries; they contribute juicy bursts of flavor.
Incorporate almond extract: A splash intensifies the almond flavor that beautifully complements the cherries.
Bake in small batches: This way, you can keep an eye on them to ensure even baking—every cookie lover knows the excitement of a well-timed bake!

As you embark on your cherry almond cookie adventure, remember that practice makes perfect. Happy baking! For a deep dive into cookie-making techniques, check out this guide on improving cookie recipes to refine your skills.

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Almond Cookies

Pair with Milk or Coffee

Nothing elevates cherry almond cookies quite like a refreshing glass of milk or a steaming cup of coffee. The sweet almond and tart cherry flavors harmonize beautifully with the rich, creamy texture of milk. Try pairing your cookies with some oat milk for a nutty twist! If you prefer coffee, a medium roast can bring out the cookies’ sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavors. This combo makes for a delightful afternoon snack or a cozy dessert after dinner.

Presentation Ideas for Gatherings

Planning a get-together? Impress your guests with elegant presentation ideas! Arrange the cherry almond cookies on a rustic wooden platter, garnished with fresh cherries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an eye-catching display. You can also stack them in a glass jar tied with a ribbon for a charming, homemade touch.

For a more festive vibe, consider placing the cookies on individual dessert plates, paired with a small cup of whipped cream or almond frosting for dipping. These small touches will not only delight your guests but create a beautiful ambiance that they won’t soon forget.

For more serving and presentation ideas, check out this entertaining tips article.

Tips for Making Perfect Cherry Almond Cookies

Importance of Ingredient Temperature

When it comes to cherry almond cookies, the temperature of your ingredients can make all the difference. For the best results, use eggs and butter at room temperature. This allows for better incorporation, resulting in a dough that’s smooth and well-blended. Room-temperature butter also helps your cookies rise perfectly, making them tender and delightful. If you forgot to take your butter out, simply cut it into smaller pieces or microwave it for about 10 seconds to soften it just enough!

How to Store Cookies for Freshness

Once your delightful cherry almond cookies are out of the oven, you’ll want to keep them fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here are some simple ways to store them:

Room Temperature: Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about a week.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to let them thaw at room temperature before nibbling!
Avoiding Moisture: Place a slice of bread in the container with your cookies to help maintain moisture levels, ensuring they don’t dry out.

Remember, the key to enjoying your cherry almond cookies is keeping them fresh, so take a little extra time to store them properly! For more expert tips on cookie baking, check out this helpful resource.

Time Details for Cherry Almond Cookies

Preparation Time

Making cherry almond cookies is a breeze! You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and mix everything together.

Baking Time

Pop those delightful cookies into the oven! They require 12-15 minutes of baking to achieve that perfect golden brown.

Chilling and Cooling Time

For optimal flavor and texture, chill your dough for 30 minutes before baking. After baking, let the cookies cool on a wire rack for another 10-15 minutes.

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at roughly an hour from start to finish. It’s a small time investment for such a delightful treat!

For more baking tips, check out this baking guide that covers the science of baking perfectly textured cookies. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information for Cherry Almond Cookies

Calories per cookie

A delightful cherry almond cookie packs about 120 calories each. While this isn’t a heavy snack, it’s always good to be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re tempted to reach for a second or third!

Key nutrients

These cookies don’t skimp on nutrition either! Here are a few highlights:

Healthy Fats: Thanks to the almonds, you get some beneficial fats that are great for heart health.
Fiber: The cherries add a boost of fiber, supporting your digestive health.
Vitamins: Cherries are rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin A, which are antioxidants that help your body combat free radicals and support your immune system.

With every bite, you’re not just indulging your sweet tooth but loading up on some good nutrients too! For more insights on nutrition, check out sources like the USDA Nutritional Database.

So, the next time you enjoy cherry almond cookies, remember that they’re more than just a treat—they’re a tasty way to incorporate some nutrients into your day!

FAQs about Cherry Almond Cookies

Can I substitute maraschino cherries?

Absolutely! While maraschino cherries are a delightful addition to cherry almond cookies, feel free to get creative. You can use fresh or dried cherries for a more tart flavor. Dried cherries will give you a chewy texture, while fresh cherries can add a juicy burst. Just ensure that whatever substitute you choose is chopped into small, manageable pieces to keep the cookie’s texture balanced.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, your cherry almond cookies can last about a week. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, consider storing them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to ten days. To maintain their delightful texture, avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as it can dry them out more quickly.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze your cherry almond cookies! To do so, allow the cookies to cool completely, and then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 2 hours before transferring them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy a cookie, simply let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. It’s like having a sweet treat waiting for you anytime!

For more tips on cookie storage, check out this guide from The Kitchn. Happy baking!

Conclusion on Cherry Almond Cookies

Baking your own cherry almond cookies is not just about the final product; it’s about the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. The aroma of fresh cookies wafting through your kitchen can transform an ordinary day into something special. As you mix, shape, and bake, you may find the process as satisfying as the outcome.

I encourage you to gather friends or family and share the experience. Perhaps host a cookie-making night, swap stories, and enjoy the delightful treats together. Remember, the best memories are often baked into shared moments! For more baking inspiration, check out sites like Joy of Baking or King Arthur Baking for a variety of recipes to explore.