Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of baking! Today, we’re bringing you a treat that’s sure to win over your heart and tantalize your taste buds: Almond Cherry Cookies. These cookies blend the nutty crunch of almonds with the sweet, tart flavor of dried cherries, creating a mouthwatering experience in every bite. Perfect for sharing or indulging yourself, these cookies are a must-try for any cookie lover. Let’s gather our ingredients and indulge in a little baking magic!
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 your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, inviting flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure they’re evenly combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. The dough will start to come together beautifully.
- Fold in the chopped almonds and dried cherries until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating pockets of delightful flavor.
- Using a spoon, drop dollops of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing them to firm up and reach their perfect texture.
Notes or Tips
For the best results, be sure to use softened butter, as it creates a creamier texture in your cookie dough. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider toasting the chopped almonds beforehand to bring out their nuttiness. And if cherries aren’t your favorite, feel free to swap them out with another dried fruit, like cranberries or even chocolate chips, for a delicious twist!
Cooking Techniques
Creaming butter and sugar together is essential for achieving that light and fluffy cookie texture. It incorporates air into the mixture, which helps the cookies rise and become tender. Make sure to mix well, but be careful not to overdo it once you begin adding the dry ingredients; just mix until everything is combined to avoid tough cookies.
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes! You can scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze the dollops. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for later baking. Just add an extra minute or so to the baking time if baking from frozen.
How should I store my cookies? Keep your almond cherry cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them to prolong their freshness!
Conclusion
These Almond Cherry Cookies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavors and textures. With their golden edges and soft, chewy centers, they are bound to become a favorite in your home. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or served at a gathering, these cookies promise to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Happy baking!