Easy Almond Cherry Cookies Recipe: Delightful & Nutritious!

Alright, let’s dive into making some deliciousness that even the busiest moms can handle! Today, we’re whipping up Almond Cherry Cookies, and trust me, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. It’s simple, satisfying, and a total win for family nutrition.

I still remember the first time I baked Almond Cherry Cookies. It was a chaotic Tuesday afternoon – you know, the kind where everyone’s hungry, homework’s looming, and you’re just trying to keep it all together. I wanted something that felt like a treat but wouldn’t derail our healthy eating goals. That’s when I stumbled upon a recipe for Almond Cherry Cookies.

The kids were instantly curious, their eyes lighting up at the sight of the bright red cherries. Baking them together turned into a mini-party in the kitchen, complete with flour dusting and cherry-stealing. What surprised me most was how much everyone loved them – even my pickiest eater devoured them! These Almond Cherry Cookies quickly became a nutrition win, packing in healthy fats and natural sweetness. Fellow busy moms seeking simple nutrition? This one’s for you!

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

Here’s what you’ll need for these delightful Almond Cherry Cookies. Remember, I’m all about making it work with what you have, so feel free to make some sanity-saving swaps!

Ingredients for making Almond Cherry Cookies including almond flour, cherries, sweetener, and almonds
  • 2 1/2 cups almond flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sweetener of choice (I often use coconut sugar)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped dried cherries
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds

No worries if you don’t have coconut sugar. I sometimes use maple syrup or even a touch of honey. It adds a different flavor profile, but the Almond Cherry Cookies will still be a hit!

You can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store. I stock up on almond flour and dried cherries when they’re on sale – every little bit helps, right? These Almond Cherry Cookies prove nutritious doesn’t mean expensive, it means smart shopping!

For a shortcut, buy pre-sliced almonds. I know, it seems small, but every saved minute counts in our nourishing chaos! Plus, almond flour is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe a great option for those with sensitivities. My family gets extra nutrition when I add a tablespoon of chia seeds to the dough. A little boost never hurts! Trust me, this Almond Cherry Cookies ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity! Here’s a Almond Cherry Cookies nutrition hack that changed our family’s health: don’t be afraid to experiment!

Let’s Make it Happen!

Ready to get baking? I’m right there with you! These step-by-step instructions will have you enjoying warm, nourishing Almond Cherry Cookies in no time.

  1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Almond Cherry Cookies usually takes about 20 minutes to prep, so let’s get started!
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, sweetener, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps! Don’t worry if your almond flour seems a little coarse. It’ll all come together beautifully.
  3. Add the melted coconut oil, eggs, and almond extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is well combined. The dough should be slightly sticky. Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch while you’re at it!
  4. Gently fold in the chopped dried cherries and sliced almonds. I like to reserve a few almonds to sprinkle on top for extra crunch and visual appeal.
  5. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie. Your Almond Cherry Cookies should look nourishing by now!
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Keep a close eye on them – ovens can vary! Here’s where I used to struggle with my Almond Cherry Cookies – learn from my experience: don’t overbake them! They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
  7. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. While your Almond Cherry Cookies are cooling, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family!
Almond Cherry Cookies can be a delicious and nutritious treat that the whole family enjoys!

How We Love to Eat This!

Okay, so you’ve baked a batch of delicious Almond Cherry Cookies. Now what? Here’s how my family loves to enjoy them – and a few ideas to make them even more of a nutrition win!

The kids devour these nutritious Almond Cherry Cookies when I serve them with a glass of milk or a side of fresh fruit. It’s a balanced snack that keeps them satisfied until dinnertime. These Almond Cherry Cookies are perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast!

Sometimes, I crumble these Almond Cherry Cookies over yogurt for a healthier dessert option. It adds a touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch.

They’re also fantastic with a cup of coffee or tea for a midday pick-me-up. I often pack a few in my husband’s lunchbox as a little treat. For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out these delicious recipes:

These Almond Cherry Cookies are perfect for those times when you want something a little special, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
For a festive touch, try adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate. My family gets extra nutrition when I sneak in some ground flaxseed or hemp seeds into the dough. No one even notices! Guests/friends always rave about the flavor. I often double the batch and freeze some for later. Sanity-saving!
I’ve found that these Almond Cherry Cookies make a delightful dessert or a sweet snack.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

I know you busy moms have questions! Here are some of the most common ones I get about these Almond Cherry Cookies, along with my best sanity-saving answers:

Is this Almond Cherry Cookies really nutritious enough for growing kids?

Absolutely! Almond flour provides healthy fats and protein, while cherries offer antioxidants. I also sneak in extra nutrients with chia seeds or flaxseed. It’s a much better option than processed snacks loaded with sugar!

What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Almond Cherry Cookies?

Start small! Offer a tiny bite and don’t pressure them. Sometimes, just seeing you enjoy it will encourage them to try it. You can also get them involved in the baking process – kids are more likely to eat something they helped make!

Can I meal prep this Almond Cherry Cookies for busy weeks ahead?

Definitely! These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just thaw them out before enjoying. I often make a double batch on the weekend and have them ready for snacks all week long.

Can I substitute the almond flour with another type of flour?

While almond flour provides a unique flavor and texture, you can experiment with other gluten-free flours like oat flour or a gluten-free blend. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

What other fruits can I add to this Almond Cherry Cookies?

Feel free to get creative! Dried cranberries, blueberries, or even chopped apricots would be delicious additions. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly. I’ve also tried adding a little orange zest for a burst of flavor.

Can I make this Almond Cherry Cookies vegan?

Yes! You can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg). Just let the mixture sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to the dough.

Are there any variations of this recipe?

Oh, absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, different types of nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. Get creative and have fun with it! These Almond Cherry Cookies are a blank canvas for your culinary imagination.
If you’re looking for more gluten-free options, check out this Facebook post. Italian Cherry Almond Cookies (gluten-free!) | Ambitious Kitchen and Italian soft almond cookies with cherries are delicious options for those looking for gluten-free or soft cookies.

Final Thoughts:

So, there you have it – a simple, satisfying recipe for Almond Cherry Cookies that even the busiest moms can manage. It’s all about finding those little pockets of time to nourish our families (and ourselves!) without the overwhelm.

This recipe supports my family’s nutrition goals by providing a healthier alternative to processed snacks. The almond flour is packed with healthy fats and protein, while the cherries offer antioxidants and natural sweetness. Plus, it’s a fun way to get the kids involved in the kitchen!

Finished Almond Cherry Cookies on a plate, ready to eat

My Almond Cherry Cookies Nutrition Hacks:

  1. Sneak in extra nutrients: Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseed to the dough for an extra boost of omega-3s and fiber.
  2. Reduce the sugar: Use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey instead of refined sugar. You can also reduce the amount of sweetener without sacrificing flavor.
  3. Control portion sizes: Bake smaller cookies to help manage sugar intake and prevent overeating.

Family-Tested Healthy Almond Cherry Cookies Variations:

  1. Chocolate Chip Almond Cherry Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips to the dough for a decadent treat.
  2. Cinnamon Almond Cherry Cookies: Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon into the dry ingredients for a warm, comforting flavor.
  3. Orange Zest Almond Cherry Cookies: Add the zest of one orange to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist.
My daughter loves the Chocolate Chip Almond Cherry Cookies, while my son prefers the classic version. I personally love the Cinnamon Almond Cherry Cookies with a cup of tea. Remember, this is your kitchen and your family’s nutrition journey! Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own.
I hope these Almond Cherry Cookies bring a little joy and nourishment to your family’s day. Remember, simple nutrition is the key to success. You’ve got this!

 
Print

Almond Cherry Cookies

These Almond Cherry Cookies are a delightful treat, bursting with almond flavor and studded with sweet, chewy cherries. Perfect for a satisfying snack or a special occasion.

  • Author: Juliette
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: About 24 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg and almond extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. Stir in the chopped dried cherries and sliced almonds.
  7. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets.
  8. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden brown.
  9. Let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For a richer flavor, toast the sliced almonds before adding them to the dough. Serve with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.

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