Cherry Almond Sugar Cookies

Name: Cherry Almond Sugar Cookies: Crispy, Chewy Bliss Awaits!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dried cherries, chopped; 1/2 cup sliced almonds

Posted on January 2, 2026

Dessert

Cherry Almond Sugar Cookies: Crispy, Chewy Bliss Awaits!

Sensory-Rich Introduction with Immediate Craving

Imagine biting into a warm, freshly baked Cherry Almond Sugar Cookie, where the crispy edges give way to a soft, chewy center. The sweet aroma of almond mingles with the tartness of dried cherries, creating an irresistible invitation to indulge. This delightful treat is not just a cookie; it’s a memory in the making, perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy afternoons, or simply as a sweet pick-me-up after a long day. I remember the first time I baked these cookies with my grandmother, her laughter filling the kitchen as we rolled the dough into perfect little balls. Each bite transports me back to those cherished moments, making these cookies a staple in my home for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Almond Sugar Cookies

Texture Contrast: The combination of crispy edges and a chewy center creates a delightful mouthfeel that keeps you coming back for more.
Flavor Balance: The nutty sweetness of almond perfectly complements the tartness of dried cherries, offering a harmonious blend of flavors.

Versatility: These cookies can be enjoyed year-round, whether for festive occasions or as an everyday treat.
Ease of Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve delicious results.
Universal Appeal: Loved by both kids and adults, these cookies are a hit at parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Essential Tools & Preparation Strategy

Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining ingredients smoothly and efficiently.
Electric Mixer: This tool helps achieve a light and fluffy mixture, crucial for the perfect cookie texture.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success; invest in a good set for consistent results.

Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet allows you to bake multiple cookies at once without warping.
Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup.
Wire Rack: This is vital for cooling cookies evenly, preventing them from becoming soggy.

Cookie Scoop: For uniform cookie sizes, a scoop ensures even baking and presentation.
Spatula: A flexible spatula is perfect for transferring cookies from the baking sheet to the cooling rack.

Ingredients & Their Roles in This Cherry Almond Sugar Cookies

Butter (1 cup, softened): Provides richness and moisture, contributing to the cookie’s chewy texture.

Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cookies and helps create a crisp exterior.
Brown Sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
Eggs (2 large): Bind the ingredients together and add structure.

Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Almond Extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses a distinct nutty flavor that complements the cherries.
All-Purpose Flour (3 cups): The main structure of the cookies; too much can lead to dense cookies.

Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Dried Cherries (1 cup, chopped): Adds tartness and chewy texture.

Sliced Almonds (1/2 cup): Provides crunch and reinforces the almond flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Cherry Almond Sugar Cookies

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.
Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Eggs and Extracts: Incorporate the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution.
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.

Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold in the chopped dried cherries and sliced almonds until evenly distributed.
Shape the Cookies: Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft.

Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips for Flawless Results

Make-Ahead: Prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking for enhanced flavors.
Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.

Equipment Recommendations: A stand mixer can save time and effort, especially for larger batches.
Customization Options: Experiment with different dried fruits or nuts based on your preferences or seasonal availability.

Avoid These Common Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies; mix until just combined.

Not Chilling the Dough: If the dough is too soft, chill for at least 30 minutes to prevent excessive spreading.
Using Stale Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking soda and flour for optimal results.
Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Ensure your oven is calibrated correctly to avoid undercooked or burnt cookies.

Incorrect Flour Measurement: Use the spoon and level method to avoid dense cookies.
Skipping the Cooling Step: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet to prevent crumbling.
Using Too Much Sugar: Stick to the recipe measurements to avoid overly sweet cookies.

Creative Variations & Customizations

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly treat.
Chocolate Chip Addition: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Seasonal Spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor during the holidays.

Coconut Flakes: Incorporate unsweetened coconut flakes for a tropical flair.
Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the flavors.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Cherry Almond Sugar Cookies

Cold Milk: A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness of the cookies.

Hot Tea: Perfect for a cozy afternoon snack, especially with herbal or chai varieties.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A delightful dessert combination that adds creaminess.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness of the cookies.

Holiday Gatherings: Serve these cookies as part of a festive dessert spread.
Sweet Dessert Wine: An elegant pairing that complements the flavors beautifully.
Lunchbox Treats: A sweet surprise for kids and adults alike.

Coffee: A perfect morning pick-me-up that pairs well with the almond flavor.

Storage & Meal Prep Instructions

Fridge Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freezer Storage: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months; bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Nutrition Facts & Health Insights

Nutrient	Per Cookie
Calories	150
Sugar	10 grams
Sodium	80 mg
Total Fat	7 grams
Saturated Fat	4 grams
Unsaturated Fat	2 grams
Trans Fat	0 grams
Carbohydrates	20 grams
Fiber	1 gram
Protein	2 grams
Cholesterol	30 mg

Health Insights: Dried cherries are rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation, while almonds provide healthy fats and protein, making these cookies a more nutritious treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?: Fresh cherries contain more moisture and may alter the texture; dried cherries are recommended for best results.

What can I substitute for almond extract?: You can use additional vanilla extract or hazelnut extract for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the cookies are done?: Look for lightly golden edges and a soft center; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I freeze the baked cookies?: Yes, baked cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

What if my dough is too sticky?: Chill the dough for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
How can I make these cookies dairy-free?: Substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine.
Can I add more cherries?: Yes, but be cautious not to add too many, as it may affect the dough’s consistency.

What’s the best way to store cookies?: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Final Inspiration & Kitchen Confidence

Baking these Cherry Almond Sugar Cookies is not just about creating a delicious treat; it’s about making memories and sharing joy with loved ones. Embrace the process, celebrate your achievements, and don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors and textures. Each batch is a step towards becoming a more confident baker. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies fill your kitchen. Happy baking!