Italian Cherry Almond Cookies

Discover the perfect blend of sweet cherries and crunchy almonds in these easy, homemade Italian Cherry Almond Cookies. This delightful treat combines the rich flavors of nutty almonds with bursts of tart cherry, creating a uniquely satisfying cookie that feels both classic and fresh. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies offer a wonderful balance of chewy and crisp textures that will have you reaching for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic flavor fusion: The combination of cherries and almonds brings a traditional Italian touch that’s both nostalgic and exciting.
• Easy to make: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile treat: Great for special occasions, tea time, or everyday indulgence.
• Crunchy and chewy textures: Enjoy the satisfying contrast created by almonds and cherry bits.
• Perfectly balanced sweetness: Not too sugary, allowing natural flavors to shine through.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect bite of Italian Cherry Almond Cookies. From the nourishing almonds to the vibrant cherries, every component adds its distinct flavor and texture.

• All-purpose flour: The base of the cookie dough, providing structure and chewiness.
• Sliced almonds: Adds crunch and that signature nutty flavor essential to the recipe.
• Dried cherries: Offers bursts of sweetness and tartness for contrast.
• Sugar: Sweetens the dough without overpowering the natural ingredients.
• Unsalted butter: Provides richness and moist texture for soft yet sturdy cookies.
• Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together and contributes to texture.
• Almond extract: Enhances the almond flavor for a more pronounced taste.
• Baking powder: Gives the cookies a light rise and airy texture.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.

Variations for Italian Cherry Almond Cookies

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, letting you personalize your cookie batch with ease. Whether adjusting for dietary needs or simply experimenting with flavors, these variations keep the core magic intact.

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a safe and delicious alternative.
• Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips alongside cherries for an indulgent twist.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and an egg substitute like flaxseed or chia seeds to keep it plant-based.
• Orange Zest: Incorporate fresh orange zest to brighten the flavors with citrus notes.
• Toasted Nuts: Swap sliced almonds with toasted walnuts or pecans for a different nutty crunch.

How to Make Italian Cherry Almond Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients and preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures you’re ready to mix and bake right away. Lightly toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet to bring out their richness.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This creates an even distribution of the leavening agent and seasoning essential for a balanced cookie texture.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer. This process incorporates air, which helps make the cookies tender and soft.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

Mix in the egg and almond extract to the creamed butter and sugar until combined. The almond extract will amplify the nutty flavor, giving these cookies their characteristic taste.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula or on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 6: Fold in Almonds and Cherries

Gently fold in the toasted sliced almonds and dried cherries to the dough. This step ensures even distribution of the mix-ins for consistent bites throughout.

Step 7: Shape and Bake

Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are golden and centers look set but soft.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents breakage and helps them firm up just right.

Pro Tips for Making Italian Cherry Almond Cookies

• Use room temperature butter: It creams better with sugar, resulting in a lighter dough.
• Don’t skip toasting almonds: Toasted nuts bring out a deeper flavor that makes the cookies special.
• Fold gently: To maintain tender texture, mix ingredients just until combined.
• Customize cherry size: Chop larger dried cherries for better distribution in each cookie.
• Monitor baking time: Slightly underbaked cookies will stay soft and chewy after cooling.

How to Serve Italian Cherry Almond Cookies

Garnishes

Sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a delicate finish or press a few extra sliced almonds on freshly baked cookies for an inviting look and extra crunch.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a steaming cup of espresso, herbal tea, or a glass of sweet dessert wine to complement the almond and cherry flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with fresh cherries and whole almonds scattered around or package them in a rustic gift box tied with ribbon for a charming homemade present.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store Italian Cherry Almond Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep their texture and freshness intact.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a tray, freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag; bake directly from frozen for fresh cookies anytime.

Reheating

Warm cookies briefly in a microwave or oven to restore their softness and bring back that fresh-baked aroma before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

Fresh cherries contain more moisture, which can affect cookie texture, but you can chop and dry them thoroughly before use or reduce other wet ingredients slightly to compensate.

Are Italian Cherry Almond Cookies gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses regular flour, but you can easily make them gluten-free by substituting with a gluten-free flour blend without losing much in taste or texture.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Italian Cherry Almond Cookies typically remain fresh for about a week at room temperature.

Can I substitute almond extract with vanilla?

Yes, vanilla extract can be used, but it will change the flavor profile slightly, making the cookies less nutty and more traditional in taste.

What is the best way to prevent cookies from sticking?

Using parchment paper or silicone baking mats on your baking sheet helps cookies release easily and prevents sticking while baking.

Final Thoughts

Italian Cherry Almond Cookies are a delightful, approachable recipe that brings a touch of Italy’s charm right into your kitchen. Their perfect balance of textures and flavors make them a favorite for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and watch how these sweet, nutty delights quickly become a go-to treat for you and your loved ones!

Related Posts

• Soft-Baked M&M Cookies
• Pumpkin Churro
• Classic Cheesecake

Print