Description
These Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies are buttery, crisp, and packed with the sweet flavor of cherries and a hint of almond. Perfect for the holidays, Valentine’s Day, or any occasion that calls for a simple yet delicious cookie.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped (or dried cherries)
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 egg yolk (optional, for added richness)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the almond extract and egg yolk (if using), and mix until combined. Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring until the dough comes together. Gently fold in the chopped cherries.
- Shape the Cookies: Take small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers. If using, sprinkle a few sliced almonds on top of each cookie for a bit of crunch.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as shortbread cookies can burn quickly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee!
Notes
- For a more intense cherry flavor, you can use dried cherries instead of maraschino cherries.
- If you prefer a firmer cookie, you can refrigerate the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking to help it hold its shape better.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg