Soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies are not just cookies; they’re little morsels of joy that dance on your taste buds. Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy cookie that melts in your mouth, with the sweet tang of cherries and the nutty crunch of almonds. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wondering if you’ve just opened a bakery or summoned a magical dessert fairy.
These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together or simply indulging yourself on a rainy day. I remember the first time I made these little delights; my kitchen looked like a flour tornado hit it, but the look of sheer bliss on my friends’ faces made every mess worthwhile. So grab your apron and let’s embark on this delicious adventure.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for any skill level.
- Their unique flavor profile combines sweet and tart cherries with rich cream cheese and crunchy almonds.
- Visually, they are stunning with their vibrant cherry hue and delicate textures.
- Versatility is key here; these cookies can be enjoyed warm or stored for later munching.
Ingredients for Soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Softened Cream Cheese: This gives the cookies their signature softness and rich flavor. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tanginess of the cherries and richness of the cream cheese.
- Cherries (fresh or frozen): Use pitted cherries; they provide bursts of flavor in every bite.
- Almonds (sliced or chopped): Choose raw or toasted almonds for added crunch and nuttiness.
- All-Purpose Flour: The main structure for your cookies; measure carefully for the best results.
For the Flavor Boost:
- Baking Powder: Helps your cookies rise perfectly without being too dense.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper – this prevents sticking and helps with cleanup.
Step 2: Cream Together Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Slowly add all-purpose flour and baking powder into the cream mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix as you want these cookies fluffy.
Step 4: Fold in Cherries and Almonds
Gently fold in your cherries and sliced almonds using a spatula. This step is like giving your dough a delightful surprise; each bite will have a chewy cherry or crunchy almond!
Step 5: Scoop onto Baking Sheet
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded scoops of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie for spreading.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow them to cool slightly before transferring them to wire racks.
Transfer to plates, serve warm, and watch as everyone reaches for another cookie! Enjoy these soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies as an afternoon snack with coffee or as dessert after dinner; they’re suitable for any occasion!
You Must Know
- Soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich creaminess of cream cheese with the sweetness of cherries and the crunch of almonds.
- They are perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to elegant tea parties.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve cookie perfection, start by creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Then, mix in the soft cream cheese before adding in your dry ingredients. Finally, fold in those juicy cherries and crunchy almonds like a pro.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment! Swap out cherries for dried cranberries or chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous. You could even add a pinch of cinnamon to spice things up or drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra treat.
Storing & Reheating
Store your soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them later, pop them in the freezer and reheat briefly in the microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies, make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Avoid overmixing the dough to keep your cookies tender.
- Lastly, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for better texture and flavor.
I remember the first time I made these cookies; my friends devoured them so fast that I barely got one! Their laughter and satisfaction filled my kitchen with joy, proving that homemade treats really do bring people together.
FAQs :
What are soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies?
Soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies are delightful treats made with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sweet cherries, and a hint of almond flavor. These cookies have a tender texture and a rich taste that makes them perfect for any occasion. The cream cheese adds moisture, while the cherries provide bursts of sweetness. Almond extract enhances the flavor profile, making each bite irresistible.
How do I store soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies?
To maintain the freshness of your soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to five days this way. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned ones?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh cherries in your soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies! Just make sure to pit and chop the cherries before adding them to the cookie dough. Fresh cherries will provide a vibrant flavor and texture, but they may release more moisture than canned cherries, so adjust your baking time if necessary.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in these cookies?
If you’re looking to substitute cream cheese in your soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies, you have several options. Greek yogurt can work well as a healthier alternative, providing similar moisture and tanginess. Mascarpone or ricotta cheese are also great substitutes that will maintain the creamy texture without altering the flavor too drastically.
Conclusion for Soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies :
In conclusion, soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies are a delicious treat that combines rich flavors and delightful textures. With their creamy base from the cream cheese and sweet bursts from cherries, these cookies stand out in any dessert spread. Storing them properly ensures they remain fresh and enjoyable. Whether you choose fresh or canned cherries, or even substitute ingredients for dietary needs, this recipe is versatile and easy to make. Enjoy baking these delightful cookies for family gatherings or just as a sweet indulgence!
Soft Cream Cheese Cherry Almond Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in these soft cream cheese cherry almond cookies, a delightful treat that combines creamy richness and fruity sweetness in every bite. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 8 oz softened cream cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup sliced or chopped almonds (raw or toasted)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and baking powder to the cream mixture, mixing until just combined to maintain fluffiness.
- Gently fold in the pitted cherries and sliced almonds using a spatula.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cooling slightly before transferring to wire racks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider experimenting with different types of nuts or adding a pinch of cinnamon. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or freeze for longer storage.
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