Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweet-tart flavor of cherries with the nutty essence of almonds. These soft, chewy cookies are perfect for any occasion, making them a beloved choice for gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of tea.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp almond extract
• ½ cup chopped dried cherries
• ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
• ½ cup coarse sugar (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Stir in chopped cherries and almonds.
5. Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 24 cookies and has a total time of 27 minutes, including 15 minutes of preparation and 12 minutes of cooking.

Variations

• Add Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
• Chocolate Chips: Mix in semi-sweet or white chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.
• Different Nuts: Swap sliced almonds for chopped pecans or walnuts for variety.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
   Fresh cherries can be used, but they will change the texture and moisture content.
2. What can I substitute for butter?
   You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute.
3. How do I ensure my cookies are chewy?
   Do not overbake; remove them from the oven when they are lightly golden.
4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days before baking.
5. What if I don’t have almond extract?
   You can use additional vanilla extract or simply omit it.
6. Can I add frosting?
   Yes, a light glaze or buttercream frosting can enhance the cookies.
7. How do I toast almonds?
   Place sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden.
8. Can I use whole wheat flour?
   Yes, but the cookies may be denser. Consider using a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour.
9. How should I store leftover cookies?
   Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
10. What drinks pair well with these cookies?
    They pair well with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk.

Conclusion

Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors that bring a homemade touch to any occasion. With their soft texture and delicious taste, they are sure to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire. Enjoy baking and sharing these scrumptious treats with family and friends!

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