Cherry Bakewell Cookies: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion

Introduction

Cherry Bakewell cookies are a delightful twist on the classic English Bakewell tart, combining the flavors of almond, cherry, and sweet icing into a charming cookie form. These cookies not only bring a taste of nostalgia but also make for an elegant addition to any dessert table, whether it’s for a festive gathering or a cozy afternoon tea. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie filled with rich almond flavor, a burst of cherry, and topped with a glossy icing—pure bliss!

This recipe quickly became a favorite in my household, combining simplicity with impressive flavor. They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends, and the best part is that they’re easy to make! Let’s dive into why you’ll love these cookies and how to create them effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Irresistible Flavor: The combination of almond extract, sweet cherries, and a hint of vanilla creates a deliciously unique flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for more.
2. Elegant Presentation: These cookies look stunning when plated, especially with a drizzle of icing and a cherry on top. They’re sure to impress guests at any gathering.
3. Fun to Make: The process of mixing, baking, and decorating these cookies can be a delightful activity for the whole family. Kids will especially love helping to decorate!
4. Versatile: While they’re perfect for special occasions, Cherry Bakewell cookies can be enjoyed year-round. They make great gifts, party favors, or a sweet treat for your afternoon coffee break.
5. Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe by using different fruit preserves or extracts to create your own unique flavor combinations.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour (including cooling and decorating)
• Servings: This recipe yields about 24 cookies, making it great for sharing or enjoying throughout the week.
• Nutrition Facts: Calories per cookie: 160, Protein: 2g, Carbs: 22g, Fat: 7g.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookie dough. Be sure to spoon and level the flour for accuracy.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and become soft and chewy.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender texture. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their soft texture.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together, adding moisture.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract: The star flavor that defines these cookies. Use high-quality extract for the best results.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complements the almond flavor.
• ½ cup cherry preserves: Provides a sweet and tart filling, adding a burst of flavor to each bite.

For the Icing:

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar: The base for your icing, giving it a smooth texture.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Helps achieve the right consistency for the icing.
• ½ teaspoon almond extract: For flavoring the icing, enhancing the overall almond profile.
• Maraschino cherries (optional): For garnishing the cookies, adding a classic touch and extra sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

STEP 1: PREPARE THE DOUGH

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour.

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a tender cookie.

Add the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

STEP 2: CHILL THE DOUGH

Once the dough is mixed, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

STEP 3: PREHEAT THE OVEN

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

STEP 4: SHAPE THE COOKIES

Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough, rolling it into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them as they will spread while baking.

Using your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon, make a small indentation in the center of each cookie. This will hold the cherry preserves once the cookies are baked.

STEP 5: FILL WITH CHERRY PRESERVES

Spoon a small amount of cherry preserves into each indentation. Be careful not to overfill, as the preserves may bubble over during baking.

STEP 6: BAKE THE COOKIES

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

STEP 7: PREPARE THE ICING

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the icing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. If the icing is too thick, add a little more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

STEP 8: DECORATE THE COOKIES

Once the cookies are completely cool, it’s time to decorate! Use a piping bag or a small offset spatula to spread the icing over the top of each cookie. You can drizzle it or coat the entire top, depending on your preference.

If desired, place a maraschino cherry on top of each cookie for an elegant touch. Allow the icing to set for about 30 minutes before serving or storing.

How to Serve

• Presentation: Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter or cake stand for an elegant display. You can add some fresh cherries or almonds around the cookies for a decorative touch.
• Beverage Pairing: These cookies pair beautifully with tea, coffee, or even a glass of dessert wine. Their sweet flavor complements the richness of these beverages.
• Gift Packaging: Consider packaging these cookies in a decorative tin or box for a delightful homemade gift. You could also include a small note with the recipe for an extra personal touch.

Additional Tips

1. Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you live in a humid environment, refrigerate them to keep them fresh longer.
2. Make Ahead: You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.
3. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to use different fruit preserves, such as raspberry or apricot, to create your own flavor combinations. You could also try adding a touch of citrus zest for a refreshing twist.
4. Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality almond extract and cherry preserves will make a noticeable difference in flavor. Always choose the best ingredients you can find for the best results.
5. Decorate with Sprinkles: If you’re feeling festive, consider adding colored sprinkles to the icing before it sets for a fun touch, perfect for parties or celebrations.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chip Addition: For a delightful contrast, fold in mini chocolate chips to the dough. The chocolate will complement the almond and cherry flavors beautifully.
• Nutty Twist: Incorporate finely chopped almonds or hazelnuts into the dough for added texture and flavor. Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances their taste.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
• Coconut Flavor: Add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with cherry.

Serving Suggestions

• Complementary Desserts: Serve these cookies alongside other desserts like fruit tarts, panna cotta, or a selection of cheeses for a delightful dessert spread.
• Themed Parties: Perfect for tea parties, bridal showers, or festive gatherings. Set up a cookie decorating station for guests to create their own unique designs.
• Kid-Friendly Treats: Kids will love both baking and decorating these cookies. You can make this a fun family activity during weekends or holidays.

Freezing and Storage

Storage:

Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’re in a humid climate, consider storing them in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness.

Freezing:

You can freeze the baked cookies (before icing) for up to 3 months. To freeze, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating:

If you prefer warm cookies, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.

Special Equipment

• Cookie Scoop: This helps ensure uniform cookie sizes for even baking. A medium-sized scoop is ideal for this recipe.
• Piping Bags: Useful for decorating the cookies with icing. If you don’t have piping bags, a zip-top plastic bag with the corner snipped off will work just as well.
• Wire Rack: Essential for cooling cookies evenly, preventing them from becoming soggy.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen cherries instead of preserves?
While you can use fresh or frozen cherries, preserves provide the sweet, concentrated flavor needed for these cookies. If using fresh cherries, be sure to chop and cook them down with a bit of sugar to create a thicker filling.

How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for lightly golden edges, and the cookies should feel set in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

What can I do if my icing is too runny?
If your icing is too thin, add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Can I decorate the cookies ahead of time?
Yes, decorated cookies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

I hope you’re excited to try making these Cherry Bakewell Cookies! They’re a delightful treat that brings together the wonderful flavors of almond and cherry, making any occasion special. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, family, or just enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

Don’t forget to share your cookie creations! I’d love to see how your Cherry Bakewell cookies turn out—be sure to leave a comment or tag me on social media with your delicious results. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with sweet aromas and cherished memories!

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