Cherry-centered cookies offer a delightful burst of flavor in every bite, combining the classic sweetness of a cookie with the juicy tang of cherries. Whether you're looking to make a new dessert for your family gathering, or you're simply indulging your own sweet tooth, these cherry cookie recipes are perfect for all occasions. They not only provide a lovely treat but also add an aesthetically pleasing pop of color to your cookie tray. Here are five unique and delicious cherry-centered cookie recipes that will surely make you fall in love with this delightful fusion of textures and flavors.
1. Classic Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of cherry preserves
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until the dough comes together.
- Form dough into balls, and press a thumbprint into the center of each ball.
- Fill the thumbprints with cherry preserves.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are just turning golden.
⚠️ Note: The dough might be a bit crumbly, but that’s perfectly normal. Just make sure to press it well when forming the cookies.
2. Cherry Cheesecake Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of butter, softened
- 1 (8oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 box of cake mix (preferably white or yellow)
- 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of cherry pie filling
- 1 cup of powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions:
- Mix the butter, cream cheese, egg, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
- Add in the cake mix and blend until a dough forms.
- Chill the dough for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Scoop dough, place cherry filling in the center, and cover to seal.
- Roll in powdered sugar and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are slightly browned.
3. Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of cocoa powder
- 1 tsp of baking soda
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 1/2 cup of butter
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup of chopped cherries or cherry preserves
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix dry ingredients: flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugars until fluffy, then add egg and vanilla.
- Stir in the dry mixture, then fold in chocolate chips and cherries.
- Scoop dough onto cookie sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.
🌟 Note: If using fresh cherries, ensure they are well drained to avoid excess moisture in the cookies.
4. Almond Cherry Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of softened butter
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 cup of almond flour
- 1/4 cup of marzipan, crumbled
- 1 can of cherry pie filling
Instructions:
- Mix butter and brown sugar until creamy, then add the flours.
- Press half the dough into a greased baking pan.
- Spread cherry pie filling over the dough.
- Crumble the remaining dough and marzipan over the cherries.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until golden.
5. Sugar Cookie Cherry Drops
Ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp of baking soda
- 1/2 tsp of baking powder
- 1 cup of butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups of white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1/2 cup of cherry preserves
- Colored sugar for decoration
Instructions:
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- Cream butter and sugar, then add egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with milk.
- Scoop dough, make a well, fill with cherry preserves, and close.
- Top with colored sugar before baking at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.
🔔 Note: For an extra flair, you can use edible glitter on the top of these sugar cookies!
These cherry-centered cookies bring both taste and visual appeal to your dessert table. They are perfect for holiday baking, summer picnics, or just a cozy treat night. Each recipe varies in complexity, allowing bakers of all skill levels to create something special. Whether you prefer the classic flavors, a mix of sweet and tart, or a touch of sophistication with almond and cherry, these cookies are versatile and will undoubtedly impress your guests. Enjoy the delightful process of baking and the even more delightful results!
Can I use frozen cherries for these recipes?
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Yes, you can use frozen cherries for most of these recipes, but make sure they are thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture which can affect the cookie texture.
How do I store these cherry cookies?
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Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate them to extend their freshness for up to two weeks.
What’s the best way to keep cherries from sinking in cookie dough?
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Coat cherries lightly in flour before adding them to the dough; this will help them adhere better to the dough and prevent sinking.
