Introduction
There’s something truly delightful about a warm cookie fresh from the oven, especially when it’s bursting with the sweet, tart flavor of cherries. These Cherry Pie Cookies combine the best of both worlds: the crispness of a cookie and the luscious filling of a cherry pie, all in one sweet little package. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy afternoons, or just because you deserve a treat, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want these cookies to be soft and tender!
- If you want to enhance the flavor, sprinkle in the cinnamon and fold it into the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Make a small indentation in the center of each cookie with your finger, and fill it generously with a teaspoon of cherry pie filling, creating that irresistible burst of flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are a gorgeous golden brown, and the cookies appear set.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch before serving.
Notes or Tips
For an extra twist, consider adding chopped nuts or a bit of almond extract to the dough for a delightful variation. These cookies also freeze wonderfully, making them perfect for baking ahead of time. Simply freeze before baking, and they can be popped in the oven straight from the freezer!
Cooking Techniques
Proper creaming of the butter and sugars is essential for achieving that perfect cookie texture. Cream until fluffy to incorporate air, which helps the cookies rise beautifully in the oven. Make sure to bake them one sheet at a time for even cooking, and keep an eye on them as ovens can vary in temperature.
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook them down with a bit of sugar until they’re syrupy to mimic the filling’s consistency.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. These cookies can also be frozen for longer storage.
Conclusion
These Cherry Pie Cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors that are sure to impress family and friends alike. With their soft texture and burst of cherry goodness, they make for a sweet ending to any meal or a delightful snack during the day. So, gather your ingredients, embrace your inner baker, and let the sweet aroma fill your home as you create these scrumptious treats!