Introduction
There’s something undeniably special about the aroma of fresh cookies wafting through your home, and these Almond Cherry Cookies are no exception. Bursting with a delightful combination of crunchy almonds and sweet, chewy dried cherries, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re sharing them with friends over a cup of coffee or simply indulging your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the joy of baking these delectable treats!
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 36 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The warmth will ensure that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes and will create a rich base for your cookies.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. Follow this with a swirl of vanilla extract to infuse a lovely aroma into the dough.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and creates a thorough mix that leads to consistently baked cookies.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies tender!
- Gently fold in the chopped almonds and dried cherries until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough, offering a delightful contrast in texture and flavor in every bite.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop rounded portions of the dough and drop them onto ungreased 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 have turned lightly golden brown. The centers may still look a touch soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to set before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- If you prefer crunchy textures, toast the chopped almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant before adding them to the dough.
- Feel free to substitute dried cranberries or apricots if cherries are not your favorite; the flavor combinations are endless!
- Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugars, aim for a light and fluffy texture. This process incorporates air into the mixture, helping to create a lighter cookie. Additionally, folding in the nuts and fruits at the end ensures they remain intact and provide satisfying bites as you enjoy your cookies.
FAQ
- Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes! You can scoop the cookie dough onto a baking sheet, freeze them individually, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them from frozen; just add a minute or two to the baking time.
- What should I do if my cookie dough is too dry? If your dough seems crumbly, add a tablespoon of milk or water at a time until it comes together smoothly.
Conclusion
These Almond Cherry Cookies are not just treats; they are little moments of happiness baked into sweet, chewy bites. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored for later treats, they will surely satisfy your cravings. So grab your mixing bowl and let the baking begin—your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your taste buds will thank you!