Name: Italian Cherry Almond Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491413H52M4S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free baking blend for gluten-free option); 1/2 cup almond flour or 1/2 cup chopped almonds; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for vegan option); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (or 1 flaxseed egg for vegan option); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup dried cherries; 1/4 cup chopped almonds (additional)

Jump to Recipe

Discover the perfect blend of sweet cherries and crunchy almonds in these Italian Cherry Almond Cookies, a delightful treat that marries rich flavors with a tender, chewy texture. These cookies are wonderfully easy to bake and offer an authentic taste of Italy’s charming baking traditions, making them an irresistible addition to your dessert repertoire or afternoon tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Flavor Fusion: Combines luscious dried cherries with toasted almonds for a uniquely satisfying bite.
Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that come together effortlessly for a gourmet result.
Perfect Texture Balance: Crispy edges with a soft, chewy center highlight the cookie’s appeal.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for holidays, gift-giving, or everyday indulgence with coffee or tea.
Easy to Customize: Can be adapted for gluten-free or vegan diets without losing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Italian Cherry Almond Cookies recipe plays a vital role in crafting the perfect cookie—whether it’s the sweetness of dried cherries, the crunch of almonds, or the richness brought by a touch of butter. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious creation to life.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and foundation for the cookies.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture for a soft texture.
Dried cherries: Offers bursts of sweet, tart flavor throughout each cookie.
Almond flour or chopped almonds: Infuses a nutty crunch and enhances nuttiness.
Baking powder: Ensures a light and airy texture.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and deep aroma to the dough.
Egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the tender bite.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.

Variations for Italian Cherry Almond Cookies

Feel free to tweak this classic Italian Cherry Almond Cookies recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences! Whether you want to switch up the flavors or keep things allergy-friendly, this recipe adapts beautifully.

Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend for a safe and delicious alternative.
Vegan swap: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flaxseed egg to keep the cookies dairy- and egg-free.
Fruit variations: Swap dried cherries with cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots for a different fruity twist.
Nut swaps: Use pistachios, walnuts, or hazelnuts in place of almonds for new nutty flavors and textures.
Chocolate lovers: Add mini dark chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top to enhance richness.

Irresistible Italian Cherry Almond Cookies Recipe

How to Make Italian Cherry Almond Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, almond flour or chopped almonds, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This creates a uniform base and ensures even distribution of leavening agents.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale, fluffy, and smooth—about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is essential to incorporate air for a soft cookie texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Mix the egg and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture until fully incorporated. These wet ingredients bring richness and help bind the dough together.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently to form a soft dough without overmixing. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so combine just until no flour remains.

Step 5: Fold in Dried Cherries and Almonds

Carefully fold in the dried cherries and the remaining chopped almonds, distributing them evenly to ensure every bite has that signature cherry-almond punch.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges turn golden and the centers look set but still soft.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them firm up and achieve the perfect texture.

Pro Tips for Making Italian Cherry Almond Cookies

Quality ingredients matter: Use fresh, high-quality dried cherries and nuts for the best flavor impact.
Don’t skip chilling: Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it feels too sticky; it’ll make shaping easier.
Even-sized cookies: Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform baking across all cookies.
Watch the oven closely: Take cookies out right when edges brown to avoid dryness and maintain chewiness.
Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve freshness up to a week.

How to Serve Italian Cherry Almond Cookies

Garnishes

Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted almond-flavored chocolate to add an extra touch of elegance and sweetness when serving these cookies.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of espresso, a frothy cappuccino, or even a refreshing glass of sweet dessert wine for a full Italian-inspired experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board with fresh cherries and almond branches for a scenic display, or stack them tied with a ribbon to give as charming edible gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Italian Cherry Almond Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and chewy for up to 5 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing

Freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed at room temperature.

Reheating

Warm the cookies briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes to refresh their softness and aroma before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries in Italian Cherry Almond Cookies?

Fresh cherries contain more moisture, which can alter the dough’s texture and baking time, so it’s best to stick with dried cherries or carefully chop and dry fresh ones before use.

How do I make Italian Cherry Almond Cookies gluten-free?

Replace the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend or use almond flour exclusively, but expect a slightly different texture—still delicious and nutty.

Are Italian Cherry Almond Cookies suitable for gift-giving?

Absolutely! These cookies keep well and present beautifully, making them a lovely homemade gift for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

Can I freeze the cookie dough before baking?

Yes, you can portion and freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag and bake straight from frozen by adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best way to achieve a chewy texture in these cookies?

Do not overbake; remove the cookies when edges are golden but centers remain slightly soft, then let them cool for chewy perfection.

Final Thoughts

Ready to savor a true Italian classic? These Italian Cherry Almond Cookies blend sweet cherries and crunchy almonds with a tender, irresistible texture that’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether for a cozy afternoon snack, festive treat, or heartfelt gift, baking these cookies is a joyful experience you won’t want to miss. Gather your ingredients and delight in the magic of homemade Italian goodness!