Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies – Soft and Delicious Treats

Introduction

Imagine indulging in a tender, chewy cookie that combines the sweetness of cherries with the nutty flavor of almonds, all wrapped up in the traditional simplicity of an Amish sugar cookie. These Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are a masterpiece of flavor and texture, perfect for anyone looking to bake something special with everyday ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease of preparation, the balance of flavors, and the creativity it allows for, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned culinary artists. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy evening at home, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of cherry and almond flavors, along with the traditional Amish sugar cookie base, creates a unique and delicious taste experience. The ingredients are easily accessible, making this recipe convenient for anyone to try.
• Ease of preparation: The steps to prepare these cookies are straightforward and simple, requiring minimal effort for such a rewarding outcome. This makes the recipe perfect for busy days or when you need something quick but special.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the simplicity of the recipe, the end result is impressive. The cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great choice for gifts or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1 cup chopped fresh or dried cherries
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• Colored sugar or icing for decorating (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the almond extract.
3. Step 3: Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Stir in the cherries and almonds.
4. Step 4: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Handy Tips

• For an extra chewy center, bake the cookies for 10-11 minutes. If you prefer them crisper, bake for 14-15 minutes.
• Consider using different types of cherries, like tart cherries for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Almond extract can be substituted with vanilla extract for a different flavor, though the almond flavor pairs particularly well with cherries.

Heat Control

Keeping an eye on the temperature and baking time is crucial. The ideal baking temperature is 375°F (190°C), and the cookies should be baked for 12-14 minutes. They are done when the edges are lightly golden. Overbaking can lead to cookies that are too hard, so it’s essential to check them frequently towards the end of the baking time.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these cookies comes from the sliced almonds. To enhance the crunch, ensure that the almonds are freshly sliced and not too finely chopped, as this will help them retain their texture during baking. For an extra crunchy cookie, you can also chill the dough before baking, which helps the cookies to retain their shape and bake up with a better texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Chilling the dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes can help the cookies retain their shape better and bake up with a nicer texture.
• Using room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that all your ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are at room temperature can significantly improve the texture and consistency of the cookies.
• Not overmixing: Mixing the dough just until the ingredients come together is crucial. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

Storage Tips

• These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• When reheating frozen cookies, place them in the microwave for a few seconds or let them thaw at room temperature.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These cookies make wonderful gifts, especially when packaged nicely. Consider placing them in decorative jars, gift tins, or even cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. You can also add a personal touch by including a handwritten note or a sprinkle of colored sugar on top of the cookies. For a more rustic look, wrap the cookies individually in parchment paper and tie with twine.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can give the cookies a unique twist.
• Creative toppings: Before baking, top the cookies with additional sliced almonds, chocolate chips, or even dried cranberries for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Experiment with different types of flour, like almond flour for a gluten-free option, or use different nuts like walnuts or pecans for a varied flavor.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the cookies turn out too hard, they might have been overbaked. If they’re too soft, they might not have been baked long enough.
• Ingredient replacements: When substituting ingredients, ensure that the replacement has a similar function in the recipe. For example, replacing butter with margarine can affect the flavor and texture.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the cookies while they’re baking. They’re done when the edges are lightly golden. If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover the baking sheet with foil to prevent overbrowning.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Simply scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? The original recipe is not gluten-free, but you can make it gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just ensure that you have enough space on your baking sheets for the additional cookies.

Conclusion

Baking Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies is a delightful experience that combines the simplicity of traditional recipes with the excitement of trying new flavors. These cookies are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients or toppings to make the recipe your own. With their unique blend of cherry and almond flavors, these cookies are sure to become a favorite among family and friends. So, go ahead, get baking, and enjoy the warm, fuzzy feeling that comes with sharing something delicious and homemade.