Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light, fluffy, and pale yellow. This process incorporates air, which contributes to the cookies’ texture.1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened, 1 cup granulated sugar
- Beat in the large egg until well combined. Then, stir in the almond extract and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The almond extract is key to that signature cherry almond flavor.1 large egg, 1 teaspoon almond extract, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures these ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing pockets of leavening or salt in your cookies.2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the large bowl, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and lead to tough cookies.
- Gently fold in the finely chopped dried cherries until evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough. The heat from baking will slightly plump up these dried cherries, releasing their tart-sweetness.1 cup dried cherries, finely chopped
- Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use a cookie scoop for uniform size, or simply use two spoons.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set but still appear soft. The cookies will continue to bake slightly on the hot baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to firm up enough to be moved without breaking.
Notes
To keep your delicious Cherry Almond Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If freezing, place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cookies will stay delicious for up to 3 months.
