If you’re on the lookout for a delightful treat that perfectly balances buttery richness with fruity brightness, this Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies Recipe is just the ticket. These tender cookies bring together the classic crumbly texture of shortbread with bursts of juicy cherries and a warm hint of almond, making them irresistible anytime you want a sweet snack. The combination of simple ingredients creates a sophisticated flavor that feels like a cozy hug in cookie form. Once you try this Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies Recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these cookies starts with a handful of straightforward ingredients that work together to create that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding buttery softness, subtle sweetness, or that distinctive almond-kissed aroma.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cookies their tender yet sturdy structure.
- Unsalted butter: Softened to create that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture shortbread is known for.
- Powdered sugar: Offers a smooth sweetness that blends seamlessly with the butter.
- Maraschino cherries or dried cherries: Chopped finely to spread bursts of fruity flavor in every bite.
- Almond extract: Adds a fragrant, nutty note that complements the cherries beautifully.
- Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors without overpowering sweetness.
- Egg yolk (optional): Gives added richness for a slightly denser texture if you choose to include it.
- Sliced almonds (optional): For a lovely crunch and decorative finish on top of the cookies.
How to Make Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick—making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, which helps the cookies achieve their tender crumb.
Step 3: Add Almond Extract and Egg Yolk
Stir in the almond extract and the optional egg yolk until everything is well combined. The almond extract infuses the dough with a warm, nutty essence that’s absolutely delightful, while the egg yolk adds extra richness and helps bind the dough.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Cherries
Gradually mix in the flour and salt, stirring just until the dough starts to come together. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino or dried cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed without smushing them. This helps keep those lovely, juicy cherry bits intact in your cookies.
Step 5: Shape and Prepare for Baking
Use about a tablespoon of dough per cookie and roll each portion into a ball. Place the balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about two inches between them to allow room for spreading. Lightly flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon or your fingers. If you’re adding sliced almonds, sprinkle a few on top now for a gorgeous, nutty crunch.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the sheet in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You want the edges to develop a gentle golden hue while keeping the centers soft. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking; shortbread can go from perfect to burnt quickly.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for about five minutes after baking to firm up, then transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely. These Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, or just enjoyed on their own as a sweet little indulgence.
How to Serve Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While the sliced almonds on top already offer a lovely finish, you can elevate presentation by lightly dusting the cookies with powdered sugar for a delicate snowy effect. Fresh cherries on the side or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can also add a touch of elegance for special occasions.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with warm beverages—imagine a mug of hot tea, spiced chai, or rich coffee to balance the buttery sweetness. For a festive touch, serve alongside a fruit compote or a creamy mascarpone dip infused with a hint of vanilla.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the cookies tied with a pretty ribbon as a charming homemade gift. Another fun idea is to sandwich them with a layer of almond buttercream or cherry jam to create mini cookie sandwiches—guaranteed to delight friends and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These shortbread cookies stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping them properly sealed preserves their signature crumbly texture without drying out or becoming stale.
Freezing
If you want to keep these delights longer, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature whenever you crave a sweet treat.
Reheating
Shortbread cookies are usually best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you want to warm them just a touch, pop them in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 3-5 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked aroma and slightly softens the texture without losing their lovely crumb.
FAQs
Can I substitute dried cherries for maraschino cherries in this recipe?
Absolutely! Dried cherries are a great alternative and will provide a more concentrated cherry flavor with less moisture. Just be sure to chop them finely so they distribute evenly throughout the dough.
Is the egg yolk necessary in the Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies Recipe?
The egg yolk is optional but highly recommended if you want a richer, slightly denser cookie. If you prefer a more traditional crumbly shortbread texture, you can omit it without losing the overall taste.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a well-balanced gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Keep in mind the texture might differ slightly, but the flavors will still shine through beautifully.
What can I use if I don’t have almond extract?
If you’re out of almond extract, vanilla extract is a suitable substitute though it creates a different flavor profile. Alternatively, a few drops of pure almond oil (used sparingly) can also provide that lovely almond aroma.
How can I keep the cookies from spreading too much while baking?
Make sure your dough is well chilled before baking to help cookies hold their shape. Also, accurately measuring flour and not over-creaming the butter and sugar can prevent excessive spreading, resulting in perfectly shaped shortbreads.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies Recipe enough if you’re looking for a cookie that feels both comforting and a little special. The tender texture, combined with the sweet-tart cherries and fragrant almond notes, creates a bite-sized delight that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new go-to cookie for every occasion!
Print
Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies featuring tender, buttery shortbread loaded with chopped maraschino cherries and a hint of almond extract, topped with crunchy sliced almonds. Perfectly crisp on the edges and soft inside, these cookies are an elegant treat ideal for tea time or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 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)
Topping
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy for a smooth texture. Add the almond extract and egg yolk (if using) and mix to combine. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, stirring until the dough comes together into a smooth, cohesive ball. Gently fold in the chopped cherries to distribute them evenly without breaking them down.
- Shape the Cookies: Portion the dough into small balls about 1 tablespoon each. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing approximately 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading. Flatten each ball gently with the back of a spoon or your fingers to form shortbread shapes. If desired, top each cookie with a few sliced almonds for added crunch and visual appeal.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges become lightly golden. Keep close watch during baking to prevent overbaking, as shortbread cookies can burn quickly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve with tea or coffee for a delightful snack or dessert.
Notes
- For a richer dough, include the optional egg yolk; omit it for a more traditional shortbread texture.
- Maraschino cherries add sweetness and moisture; dried cherries work as a dryer alternative with a chewier texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- These cookies can be frozen before baking; scoop and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
