Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies Recipe
When considering a treat that balances sweetness with a hint of nuttiness, you might find yourself drawn to cherry almond shortbread cookies. You've got the buttery richness of shortbread meeting the unique flavors of dried cherries and toasted almonds, creating a truly satisfying bite. As you think about preparing these cookies, imagine mixing the perfect dough, chilling it to maintain its shape, and finally baking it to a golden perfection. But there's more to this recipe than just the ingredients and process. What subtle twist could elevate this classic combination to a new culinary delight?
Recipe
Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweet and tart flavors of dried cherries with the rich, nutty taste of toasted almonds. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a festive gathering, attending a potluck, or just indulging in a sweet snack with your afternoon tea.
The buttery shortbread base provides the perfect canvas for the vibrant flavors of cherries and almonds, resulting in a cookie that's both satisfying and indulgent.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the use of quality ingredients. With just a few basic steps, you can create a batch of these delicious cookies in no time. The key is to make certain that the butter is softened to room temperature before you begin, as this will allow the dough to come together smoothly and create a tender, crumbly texture.
Additionally, chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies maintain their shape, making sure perfectly round and evenly baked cookies.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
To make these Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Stir in the almond extract. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together. Fold in the chopped dried cherries and toasted sliced almonds, making sure they're evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Shape the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Once chilled, slice the dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For best results, make sure the butter is at room temperature before you begin mixing the dough, as this will guarantee a smooth and even texture. Chilling the dough is an essential step that prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.
If you prefer a more intense almond flavor, you can increase the almond extract slightly or add a handful of finely chopped almonds to the dough. Store these cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and enjoy them for up to a week.
Cooking Steps
Let's get your kitchen humming with the aroma of Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies!
First, preheat your oven to 325°F, because nobody wants to wait around when cookie cravings hit.
Then, cream together the butter and sugar until they're as light and fluffy as a cloud, before adding that fragrant almond extract to make your taste buds do a little happy dance.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 325°F
To get started on your Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This gentle heat setting is perfect for coaxing out that delightful, buttery flavor without over-browning the edges.
Don't skip this step—it's crucial for baking success! While your oven is warming up, you can prepare your baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and guarantee easy cookie removal.
This little trick saves you from scrubbing later, and who doesn't love that? Remember, patience is key here; let your oven reach the right temperature before popping in those cookies.
It's like waiting for the perfect movie snack—worth it! So set your temperature and let the aroma of cookies soon fill your kitchen.
Step 2. Cream Butter and Sugar
Begin by creaming the softened butter and granulated sugar together in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential, so don't rush it!
Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the color lightens and the texture becomes airy, almost like a cloud—your arms might get a bit of a workout, but hey, it's worth it.
If you're feeling ambitious, you can do this by hand, but be prepared for an arm exercise that rivals any gym session.
Step 3. Add Almond Extract
Mix in the almond extract once your butter and sugar have reached that light and fluffy stage. This step is where the magic begins, infusing the dough with that irresistible nutty aroma.
Be sure to measure carefully, though—unless you want a cookie that screams, "I've bathed in perfume!" Stir it in gently, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the mix.
You'll notice the delightful scent wafting up, teasing your taste buds and promising a delicious treat ahead. Don't rush—let the almond extract work its charm.
This simple addition transforms your dough from ordinary to extraordinary, giving each cookie that subtle, sophisticated edge.
Step 4. Blend in Flour and Salt
With the enchanting aroma of almond extract lingering, it's time to incorporate the dry ingredients into your dough.
Grab your mixing bowl and slowly add the flour and salt, a little at a time, unless you're feeling daring and want a floury explosion!
Mix gently, allowing the flour to mingle with the buttery almond-infused goodness. You'll notice the dough starting to come together, transforming from a sticky mess into a smooth, pliable masterpiece.
Be patient and resist the urge to overmix; your cookies will thank you!
Step 5. Incorporate Cherries and Almonds
Now's the moment to add those delightful cherries and almonds to your dough. First, grab your chopped dried cherries and toasted sliced almonds. They're like the dynamic duo of the cookie world, ready to bring a burst of flavor.
Gently fold them into the dough, making certain they're evenly spread out. You don't want one cookie hogging all the goodies while another ends up lonely!
As you mix, you might feel like you're crafting a masterpiece, with specks of red cherries and golden almonds decorating your dough. If you notice any big clumps, break them up with your spatula. This guarantees every bite gets a delightful crunch and a sweet tang.
Now, take a moment to admire your handiwork before moving to the next step!
Final Thoughts
Offering a delightful blend of flavors, Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies are a demonstration of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.
You'll find that the buttery shortbread, sweet cherries, and nutty almonds come together to craft cookies that are both comforting and impressive.
They're perfect for sharing, but honestly, you might want to keep a few stashed away just for yourself—don't worry, we won't judge!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh Cherries Instead of Dried Cherries?
You can use fresh cherries instead of dried, but you'll need to adjust for moisture. Chop them finely and pat dry to prevent soggy cookies. Fresh cherries add a juicy burst, but the texture will differ slightly.
How Can I Make the Cookies Gluten-Free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Make certain it includes xanthan gum for binding. Check that other ingredients are gluten-free. Follow the same steps, and you'll have delicious gluten-free cookies. Enjoy!
What Can I Substitute for Almond Extract?
You can substitute almond extract with vanilla extract if you're looking for a milder flavor. If you want to maintain the nutty profile, try using hazelnut or walnut extract for an interesting twist on the original recipe.
How Do I Toast Sliced Almonds Properly?
To toast sliced almonds, preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the almonds evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they're golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Can I Freeze the Cookie Dough for Later Use?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for later use. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. When you're ready, thaw it in the fridge before slicing and baking.
