There’s something truly irresistible about the combination of cherries and almonds in a buttery shortbread cookie. This Cherry Almond Shortbread Recipe brings together the sweet tartness of cherries and the nutty richness of almonds in a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth treat. Perfect for afternoon tea or a cozy dessert, these cookies are both elegant and simple to make.
We love how this recipe balances flavors and textures without requiring fancy ingredients or complicated steps. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a homemade sweet, these shortbreads deliver that perfect crumbly bite with a burst of fruity goodness. Let’s dive into making this classic treat that’s sure to become a favorite in our baking repertoire.
Ingredients
To create our delightful Cherry Almond Shortbread, we carefully select ingredients that enhance the buttery texture and balance the sweet tartness with nutty undertones. Below are the categorized components essential for this classic cookie.
Dry Ingredients
We combine the following dry ingredients to form the base of our shortbread dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/2 cup almond flour, finely ground for a delicate texture
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, to enhance overall flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, to maintain a tender crumb
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar, for sweetness
- 1/2 cup chopped dried cherries, for bursts of tartness
Wet Ingredients
These wet ingredients provide the essential buttery richness and bind the dough together:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature for smooth mixing
- 1 teaspoon almond extract, to intensify the nutty aroma
- 1 large egg yolk, adds richness and helps with dough binding
Toppings and Garnishes
Finish your Cherry Almond Shortbread with delightful accents that add texture and a charming presentation:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 1/4 cup sliced almonds | For crunchy topping and visual appeal |
| Extra granulated sugar | For sprinkling, adds subtle crunch and sparkle |
| Additional dried cherries | Optional, for garnish and extra flavor pops |
We sprinkle the sliced almonds and sugar on top before baking, and press a few extra dried cherries gently into the dough to highlight the cherry flavor visually and texturally.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Cherry Almond Shortbread, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Each tool helps us achieve the ideal texture and flavor, ensuring our cookies turn out flawlessly.
Essential Tools for Mixing and Preparation
- Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for combining dry ingredients and a separate bowl for wet components.
- Electric mixer or hand mixer: To cream the unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy, which is critical for that tender crumb.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurements of flour, almond flour, sugar, and extracts to maintain consistency.
- Rubber spatula: For folding in the chopped dried cherries gently without over-mixing the dough.
Baking and Finishing Equipment
- Baking sheet: A flat, rimmed sheet is necessary for even baking.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents the shortbread from sticking and ensures even browning.
- Rolling pin: For rolling out the dough evenly to the desired thickness.
- Cookie cutters: Use almond or circle-shaped cutters to shape our shortbread pieces beautifully.
- Wire cooling rack: Crucial for cooling the cookies evenly to prevent sogginess.
Optional but Helpful Tools
- Pastry brush: To lightly brush the cookies with egg wash for a subtle shine before sprinkling sliced almonds and sugar.
- Fine mesh sieve: For dusting powdered sugar, if desired, after baking.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | Combine dry and wet ingredients separately |
| Electric or hand mixer | Cream butter and sugar for ideal texture |
| Measuring cups & spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Rubber spatula | Gently fold in cherries |
| Baking sheet | Bake cookies evenly |
| Parchment paper/silicone mat | Prevent sticking and promote even baking |
| Rolling pin | Roll dough to uniform thickness |
| Cookie cutters | Shape shortbread cookies precisely |
| Wire cooling rack | Cool cookies evenly and prevent sogginess |
| Pastry brush (optional) | Brush egg wash for glossy finish |
| Fine mesh sieve (optional) | Dust powdered sugar if desired |
Equipping ourselves with these tools will make the baking process efficient and enjoyable. Let’s gather them before starting to mix our luscious Cherry Almond Shortbread dough.
Prep Work
To ensure our Cherry Almond Shortbread turns out perfectly, careful preparation is key. Let’s get started by readying the cherry almond mixture and setting up our oven and baking pan.
Preparing the Cherry Almond Mixture
First, we combine the essential dry ingredients to build the cookie’s flavor base:
- All-purpose flour and almond flour for structure and nuttiness
- Salt and baking powder to balance and help leaven
- Granulated sugar for sweetness
- Chopped dried cherries to infuse the rich cherry flavor throughout the dough
It’s important to evenly mix these dry components to guarantee a uniform distribution of flavors. Using a whisk or a rubber spatula, we gently fold the chopped dried cherries into the dry mixture to avoid breaking them.
Next, we prepare our wet ingredients blending:
- Softened unsalted butter for that buttery richness
- Almond extract to enhance the nutty aroma
- Egg yolk which binds the dough and lends tenderness
We beat the butter and sugar together first until light and fluffy, then gradually incorporate the almond extract and egg yolk. Finally, combining the wet and dry mixtures with gentle folding forms a crumbly but cohesive dough. Keeping the dough slightly chilled before rolling improves handling and cookie texture.
Preheating the Oven and Preparing the Pan
Proper oven temperature and pan setup are crucial for baking consistent golden shortbread.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Preheat Oven | Set at 325°F (163°C) |
| Prepare Baking Sheet | Line with parchment paper or silicone mat |
| Arrange Tools | Set rolling pin, cookie cutters nearby |
We preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) which allows a slow even bake for tender shortbread edges without browning too quickly. While the oven heats, we line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Keeping cutter and rolling pin at hand streamlines the shaping process once the dough is ready.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create perfect Cherry Almond Shortbread cookies with balanced flavors and tender texture. Precise mixing and careful shaping ensure buttery cookies that melt in your mouth.
Mixing the Dough
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup (227g) of unsalted butter and ⅔ cup (135g) granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add egg yolk and almond extract: Mix in 1 large egg yolk and 1 teaspoon almond extract until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the following:
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 ½ cups (180g) | Sifted |
| Almond flour | ½ cup (50g) | |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | |
| Baking powder | ¼ teaspoon |
- Gradually add dry mix: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use a rubber spatula to fold gently, combining until just incorporated to avoid overworking the dough and toughening the cookies.
Incorporating the Cherry Almond Toppings
- Add dried cherries and sliced almonds: Fold in ½ cup (75g) finely chopped dried cherries and ½ cup (50g) sliced almonds with care, maintaining their shape and distribution within the dough.
- Chill the dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This firms the dough and enhances the texture during baking.
Shaping and Scoring the Dough
- Preheat oven: Heat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Form dough log: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough into a 10-inch (25cm) log, about 2 inches (5cm) thick. Use your hands to smooth the edges for even cooking.
- Score the log: With a sharp knife, score the log into 12 equal segments without cutting all the way through. This step allows for easy separation after baking.
- Optional topping: Sprinkle the surface lightly with extra sugar and press a few whole dried cherries or almonds on top for visual appeal.
- Bake: Transfer the log onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
- Cool and separate: Let the shortbread cool on the sheet for 10 minutes before slicing along the scored lines and transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
By following these steps, we ensure our Cherry Almond Shortbread cookies achieve a perfect balance of crisp edges and tender crumb with every batch.
Baking Directions
Let’s dive into the precise baking steps that transform our Cherry Almond Shortbread dough into buttery, tender cookies with a delightful crunch and a burst of cherry flavor in every bite.
Baking Time and Temperature
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature allows the shortbread to bake evenly without browning too quickly.
Place the scored dough log on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing the slices slightly to allow for gentle expansion. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the edges turn a light golden brown and the cookies feel firm to the touch.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 325°F (163°C) |
| Baking Time | 20-25 minutes |
| Visual Cue | Light golden edges |
Tip: Avoid overbaking to keep the shortbread tender inside with just a crisp exterior.
Cooling and Setting
Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial as it allows the shortbread to firm up, enhancing the delicate crumb texture.
After cooling for at least 30 minutes, the cookies will set perfectly, with a satisfying snap when broken or bitten into. If desired, sprinkle with a dusting of powdered sugar or garnish with extra sliced almonds for a final touch.
Reminder: Cooling on the rack prevents sogginess by allowing air circulation around the cookies, preserving their signature crispness.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Cherry Almond Shortbread experience, we recommend pairing these buttery delights with complementary flavors and textures that enhance their sweet-tart and nutty profile. Here are some creative serving ideas to enjoy the cookies to their fullest:
Pairing Beverages
- Tea: A cup of Earl Grey or Chamomile tea pairs wonderfully, as their floral and citrus notes harmonize with the almond and cherry flavors.
- Coffee: Serve alongside a mild light roast coffee or a smooth latte to balance the shortbread’s richness.
- Dessert Wine: A chilled glass of Moscato or Riesling brings out the fruity cherry undertones beautifully.
Presentation Tips
- Arrange the shortbread on a decorative plate, alternating with fresh cherries or almond slices for visual appeal.
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for an elegant touch.
- Serve with a small ramekin of whipped cream or vanilla mascarpone for added indulgence.
Creative Serving Ideas
| Serving Idea | Description |
|---|---|
| Ice Cream Sandwich | Sandwich a scoop of cherry or almond-flavored ice cream between two shortbread cookies. |
| Fruit Tart Base | Use the shortbread as a crust base topped with fresh berry compote and almond slivers. |
| Cheese Pairing | Pair the shortbread with a creamy cheese like Brie or ricotta, accented with honey drizzle. |
Storage and Serving Tips
- Enjoy the cookies at room temperature to fully appreciate the buttery texture and almond aroma.
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness and crisp edges.
By exploring these serving suggestions, we can transform our Cherry Almond Shortbread into an elegant treat ideal for afternoon gatherings or special celebrations.
Storage and Shelf Life
To preserve the delightful flavors and crisp texture of our Cherry Almond Shortbread, proper storage is essential. Let’s explore the best practices for keeping these cookies fresh and delicious.
Storing Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies
- Cool Completely Before Storing
Ensure the cookies have fully cooled on a wire rack to prevent moisture buildup which can cause sogginess.
- Use an Airtight Container
Place the cookies in a clean airtight container. This prevents exposure to air, maintaining their tender crumb and buttery richness.
- Layer with Parchment Paper
If stacking cookies, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking and preserve the delicate almond and cherry pieces.
- Keep at Room Temperature
Store the container in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
Refrigerator and Freezer Storage
While room temperature storage is ideal for short-term freshness, refrigeration or freezing can extend the shelf life.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 1 week | Store airtight, avoid humidity |
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks | Place in airtight container, allow to come to room temperature before serving |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe container or bag |
Thawing and Serving After Freezing
“For best taste and texture, thaw frozen shortbread cookies at room temperature in their container for 1 to 2 hours before serving.”
This prevents condensation which can soften the cookies. Once thawed, you can gently refresh them by warming in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–5 minutes if desired.
Signs the Shortbread Has Passed Its Prime
- Loss of crispness, turning soft or chewy
- Rancid or off almond flavor indicating butter oxidation
- Visible moisture or mold growth
If any of these occur, it’s best to discard the batch for quality and safety.
By following these storage guidelines we ensure our Cherry Almond Shortbread stays fresh, crisp, and bursting with flavor for every delightful bite.
Conclusion
This Cherry Almond Shortbread recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to become a staple in our baking repertoire. Its simplicity and elegance make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon treat or a festive gathering.
With the right ingredients, tools, and careful preparation, we can consistently create cookies that are tender, buttery, and bursting with cherry and almond goodness. Let’s keep these tips in mind to enjoy every bite fresh and flavorful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients in Cherry Almond Shortbread?
The key ingredients include all-purpose flour, almond flour, salt, baking powder, granulated sugar, chopped dried cherries, unsalted butter, almond extract, and an egg yolk. Optional toppings are sliced almonds and extra sugar.
How do I prepare the dough for Cherry Almond Shortbread?
Cream butter and sugar, mix in egg yolk and almond extract, then gradually fold in dry ingredients and dried cherries gently to keep texture intact.
At what temperature and for how long should I bake the shortbread?
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until the edges turn light golden brown.
How should I store Cherry Almond Shortbread to keep it fresh?
Cool completely, store in an airtight container at room temperature, layering with parchment paper if stacked. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze.
What beverages pair well with Cherry Almond Shortbread?
Earl Grey tea, light roast coffee, or dessert wines like Moscato complement these cookies beautifully.
Can Cherry Almond Shortbread dough be chilled before baking?
Yes, chilling the dough enhances texture and makes it easier to shape and slice.
What are some serving suggestions for these cookies?
Serve with whipped cream, as an ice cream sandwich, with fresh cherries, or as a base for fruit tarts. Dust with powdered sugar for extra elegance.