These cherry almond shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich buttery flavor of traditional shortbread with the sweet and tart essence of cherries. Perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or as a sweet gift, these cookies are bound to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a cookie that melts in your mouth, revealing a delightful combination of cherry bites and a hint of almond extract. With a crumbly texture and a perfect balance of sweetness, these cookies are not just a dessert but a delightful experience.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is simple yet rewarding, making it a must-try for cookie lovers everywhere.
Perfect Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies
These cookies are a perfect blend of buttery richness and a delightful crunch.
The combination of cherries and almonds brings a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and slightly tart.
Baking these treats fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that makes them hard to resist.
Ingredients That Shine
The quality of ingredients directly impacts the final outcome.
Using unsalted butter ensures a pure buttery taste without added saltiness.
Dried cherries not only provide sweetness but also a vibrant color that makes the cookies visually appealing.
The Art of Baking
Baking is as much about the process as it is about the final product.
Preheating the oven properly and mixing the dough to just the right consistency are key steps.
Don’t forget to let the cookies cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack; this helps maintain their delicate texture.
Presentation Matters
Storage Tips
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container to keep them fresh for days.
If you plan to enjoy them later, consider freezing them; they can be thawed easily without losing their delightful taste.
Sharing them as gifts? Wrap them in pretty packaging for an added personal touch.
Perfect Pairings
Cherry almond shortbread cookies pair beautifully with a variety of beverages.
Consider serving them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
For something more festive, a glass of sparkling wine can enhance the overall experience.
Perfect Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies
These shortbread cookies are buttery and crumbly, with the vibrant flavor of cherries complemented by the subtle nuttiness of almond. They are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while offering a delightful contrast in flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the almond extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped cherries.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll tablespoon-sized amounts of dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand. Optionally, sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories: 120 kcal per cookie
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
