Introduction
There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about cookies, and these Almond Cherry Cookies might just transport you back to simpler times. With a delightful crunch from the almonds, a chewy burst of flavor from the dried cherries, and a rich buttery base, each bite is a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. Ideal for a cozy afternoon with friends or a special treat to share during the holidays, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Let’s dive in and create some delicious memories!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 1 cup dried cherries
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes and will create a lovely, airy texture.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated before adding the next. Then pour in the vanilla extract and mix until everything is nicely combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt, making sure to break up any lumps in the flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing may lead to dense cookies, so stop when you see no more dry flour.
- Now, fold in the chopped almonds and dried cherries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough, adding a delicious texture and sweetness to every cookie.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop generous spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The center may look a little soft; don’t worry, as they will firm up as they cool.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, enhancing their chewy texture.
Notes or Tips
For extra flavor, consider toasting the chopped almonds in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the dough. This will enhance their nuttiness and add an aromatic element to your cookies. Feel free to substitute the dried cherries with your favorite dried fruit or even chocolate chips for a delicious twist!
Cooking Techniques
Make sure to cream the butter and sugars well; this step is key to achieving light and airy cookies. Also, don’t skip over letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet a little before transferring them, as this helps them maintain their shape and perfect texture.
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
No problem! You can scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the bake time.
What can I do if I don’t have dried cherries?
You can substitute dried cranberries, raisins, or even chopped up dried apricots. Each will lend a unique flavor to your cookies.
Conclusion
These Almond Cherry Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the flavors of nutty almonds and tart cherries in a satisfying cookie. They are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy evenings at home. With their golden edges and chewy centers, these cookies offer a sense of comfort that is rarely found in a store-bought cookie. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating something delicious!