Have you ever wondered how you can turn simple ingredients into a delightful treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also impresses your friends and family? The secret lies in crafting the perfect Cherry Almond Cookies, a recipe that balances the rich, nutty flavor of almonds with the tart sweetness of cherries. With countless cookie recipes available, why should this one stand out in your baking repertoire? Let’s explore the delightful experience of baking these Cherry Almond Cookies together.
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Amount | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Whole wheat flour for added fiber |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Brown sugar for a richer taste |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup | White sugar for similar sweetness |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon | Sodium bicarbonate |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon | None |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | None |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick), softened | Coconut oil for dairy-free option |
| Eggs | 1 large | Flaxseed meal for vegan alternative (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) |
| Almond extract | 1 teaspoon | Vanilla extract for different flavor profile |
| Cherries (fresh or dried) | 1 cup, chopped | Raisins or cranberries as substitutes |
| Sliced almonds | ½ cup | Chopped walnuts for varied texture |
Timing
The preparation time for these Cherry Almond Cookies is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 10 to 12 minutes. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes from start to finish. This means you’ll be enjoying these delicious cookies in about 25% less time than the average cookie recipe, making it an accessible sweet treat for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your cookies bake evenly, giving them that perfectly golden exterior.
Step 2: Mix dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combination sets the foundation for your cookie’s texture and sweetness.
Step 3: Cream butter and sugars
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step incorporates air into your batter for a delightful cookie texture. Add in the egg and almond extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until it forms a soft dough. Be careful not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are okay!
Step 5: Fold in cherries and almonds
Gently fold in the chopped cherries and sliced almonds. The cherries will add moisture, while the almonds give that lovely crunch.
Step 6: Scoop and shape cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows for spreading during baking and helps achieve an even bake.
Step 7: Bake the cookies
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden brown. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook on the sheet after removal from the oven.
Step 8: Cool and enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This action permits them to firm up while maintaining a soft center.
Nutritional Value / Health Benefits
| Nutrient | Value per Serving (1 Cookie) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 60mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Protein | 2g |
These Cherry Almond Cookies provide a blend of health benefits including protein from the almonds, antioxidants from the cherries, and heart-healthy fats from the butter. Incorporating these nutrient-dense ingredients makes the cookies not just delicious but also a small step towards a balanced diet.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you want to make these cookies healthier without sacrificing flavor, here are some creative suggestions:
- Use almond flour in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative, but be aware that the texture will change slightly.
- Substituting half the sugar with applesauce or a sugar alternative like Stevia can cut down on calories while keeping them sweet.
- Incorporate dark chocolate chips along with the cherries for added antioxidants.
These modifications will not only enhance nutritional content but also add new flavors and textures to the cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These Cherry Almond Cookies are perfect on their own, but you can elevate your serving game with these ideas:
- Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Serve alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Pack them in lunches or picnic baskets as a delightful snack on the go.
Feel free to get creative with how you serve these cookies; they make an excellent addition to any gathering!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the flour; this can make cookies tough instead of tender.
- Ensure your butter is softened but not melted; the texture of the cookie can be negatively affected.
- Pay attention to baking times as ovens vary; slightly underbaking can keep cookies chewy.
Being aware of these common pitfalls will ensure your Cherry Almond Cookies come out perfect every time!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious:
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies, placing parchment paper between layers, for up to three months. Allow to thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.
- To prep ingredients ahead of time, measure and combine dry ingredients in an airtight container and store until you are ready to bake.
These tips will help preserve the taste and texture, ensuring every bite remains delightful.
Conclusion
In summary, Cherry Almond Cookies are an easy, delicious treat combining the goodness of cherries and almonds, perfect for any baking occasion. Try making them today and share your experience in the comments section. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates!
FAQs
A: Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and dry the cherries before adding them to the dough to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the texture of your cookies.
B: How can I make these cookies vegan-friendly?
To make Cherry Almond Cookies vegan, substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water or use a commercial egg replacer. Ensure you also use dairy-free butter.
C: What can I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to scoop and shape.
D: How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
To minimize spreading, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking also helps maintain their shape.
E: Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other nuts, chocolate chips, or even pieces of dried fruit for a unique flavor profile.
Print
Irresistible Cherry Almond Cookies Bake These Tasty Treats
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Delight in baking Cherry Almond Cookies that combine rich flavors for a perfect dessert These treats are a musttry for cookie lovers 154 chars
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
Delicious Cherry Almond Cookies that combine the rich flavors of almonds with the tart sweetness of cherries, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
Keywords: Cherry Almond Cookies, cookies, dessert, baking, recipe
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