These Cherry Almond Chocolate Cookies are a delightful treat combining rich chocolate, tart cherries, and crunchy almonds. The perfect balance of sweetness and texture makes these cookies irresistible. They are ideal for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to a casual snack. The blend of almond extract with the cherries and chocolate offers a unique twist on a classic cookie.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: A delightful mix of chocolate, cherries, and almonds.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients make baking a breeze.
- Chewy and Crisp: These cookies have the perfect texture — soft yet slightly crispy on the edges.
- Perfect for Gifting: Great for gift-giving or sharing with friends and family.
- Customizable: Add more cherries or almonds for extra flavor!
Ingredients
- Butter
- Sugar
- Egg
- Almond extract
- All-purpose flour
- Cocoa powder
- Salt
- Chopped almonds
- Dried cherries
- Semisweet chocolate chips
Variations
- Add more dried fruits: Try adding cranberries or raisins for a twist.
- Use white chocolate chips: For a sweeter contrast with the cocoa.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare baking sheets by leaving them ungreased.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until smooth.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg and almond extract until well combined.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine flour, cocoa, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Fold in the Mix-ins
Fold in chopped almonds, dried cherries, and chocolate chips.
Step 6: Bake
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes.
Step 7: Cool
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to scoop, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda and other ingredients are fresh for the best rise and flavor.
How to Serve
These cookies are perfect on their own or served with a glass of milk. Pair them with coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Freezing
Freeze dough balls for up to 3 months and bake as needed. You can also freeze baked cookies.
Reheating
Warm cookies in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their soft texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use different nuts?
Yes, walnuts or pecans would work well in place of almonds.
2. Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
Dried cherries work best, but fresh cherries can be used with some adjustments in texture.
3. How do I keep cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough before baking to prevent excessive spreading.
4. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with gluten-free flour.
5. How can I make them sweeter?
Increase the sugar or use milk chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
6. Can I make these without eggs?
Yes, substitute with a flax egg or another egg substitute.
7. Can I add more chocolate chips?
Feel free to add more chips for a richer chocolate flavor.
8. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used, but the flavor might be slightly different.
9. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made and refrigerated or frozen for later.
10. What’s the best way to freeze cookie dough?
Scoop dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then store in a freezer bag.
Conclusion
These Cherry Almond Chocolate Cookies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate, crunchy almonds, and tart cherries. With their chewy texture and delightful flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying them on your own. Try this easy recipe for a sweet treat that will leave everyone craving more!
Print
Cherry Almond Chocolate Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
These Cherry Almond Chocolate Cookies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and crunchy almonds. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a chewy and flavorful bite with a touch of almond extract for an extra layer of taste!
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and almond extract until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the creamed butter mixture.
- Fold in the chopped almonds, dried cherries, and semisweet chocolate chips.
- Drop the cookie dough by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased cookie sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For an extra crunch, you can lightly toast the chopped almonds before adding them to the dough.
- If you prefer larger cookies, simply scoop out bigger portions of dough and bake a few minutes longer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes