Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Indulge in the delectable combination of cherries and almonds with these cherry almond shortbread cookies. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are buttery, crumbly, and packed with the delightful flavors of sweet cherries and nutty almonds. Whether you're baking for a holiday, a special gathering, or just a treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Read on to learn how to make these irresistible cherry almond shortbread cookies from scratch.

What are Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies?

Cherry almond shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, buttery texture of classic shortbread with the sweetness of dried cherries and the nutty flavor of almonds. The result is a cookie that's crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. These cookies are perfect for tea time, holiday cookie exchanges, or as a sweet snack any time of the day.

Ingredients List for Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup dried cherries, chopped
• ½ cup sliced almonds

For the Topping (optional):

• ¼ cup powdered sugar for dusting

Substitutions and Variations

• Butter: For a dairy-free version, substitute with vegan butter.
• Sugar: You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a healthier option.
• Cherries: Fresh or frozen cherries can be used in place of dried cherries. Just be sure to chop and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
• Almonds: If you're not a fan of almonds, try using pecans or walnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Extracts: For a unique twist, substitute almond extract with vanilla extract or a combination of both.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing the Dough:

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Almond Extract: Mix in the almond extract until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
4. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating on low speed until just combined.
5. Fold in Cherries and Almonds: Gently fold in the chopped dried cherries and sliced almonds until evenly distributed.

Shaping and Chilling the Dough:

6. Form the Dough: Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log, about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
7. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Baking the Cookies:

8. Slice the Dough: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice each log into ¼-inch thick rounds.
9. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the slices on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
10. Bake: Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix the dough just until the ingredients are combined.
• Skipping the Chill Time: Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining the shape of the cookies and preventing them from spreading too much during baking.
• Using Too Much Flour: Be sure to measure the flour correctly, using the spoon-and-level method, to avoid dense cookies.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies

These cookies are delicious on their own but can also be served with a cup of tea or coffee. For an extra special treat, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also make a beautiful addition to a holiday cookie platter.

Presentation Ideas for Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies

• Decorative Plate: Arrange the cookies on a decorative plate or a tiered serving tray for an elegant presentation.
• Gift Packaging: These cookies make wonderful gifts. Package them in a decorative tin or a cellophane bag tied with a festive ribbon.
• Powdered Sugar Dusting: For a classic look, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving.

Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Butter: Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugars.
• Uniform Slices: For evenly baked cookies, slice the dough logs into uniform thickness.
• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries?
A: Yes, you can use fresh cherries. Be sure to chop and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the dough.

Q: How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
A: Chilling the dough logs before slicing and baking helps to maintain the shape of the cookies.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, the dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.

Q: What can I use instead of almond extract?
A: Vanilla extract can be used as a substitute, or you can use a combination of almond and vanilla extracts for a unique flavor.

Conclusion

Cherry almond shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, buttery texture of shortbread with the sweet and nutty flavors of cherries and almonds. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create these delicious cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the delightful process of baking these cherry almond shortbread cookies. Happy baking!

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