Cherry Jewels
Cherry Jewels are delightful, nutty cookies filled with halved candied cherries, featuring lemon and orange flavors, perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together butter and sugar; beat until light and fluffy.
- Add egg yolk, grated lemon rind, lemon juice, orange juice, and vanilla. Beat well.
- Gradually blend in sifted cake flour; chill the dough.
- Roll dough into 1-inch diameter balls; roll in chopped pecans and place on a buttered baking sheet.
- Press a halved candied cherry in the center of each cookie.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Remove to wire rack to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming with sugar. If you don't have cake flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour by removing 2 tablespoons per cup and adding cornstarch. Try using walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different flavor. For added zest, consider incorporating a pinch of cinnamon for warmth, which complements the citrus flavors well.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry Jewels are delightful on their own or served with a cup of tea or coffee. They make excellent holiday treats or gifts, especially around festive seasons. For a special touch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They pair beautifully with Carmel Rolls for a sweet brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cherry Jewels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to restore their texture without overbaking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Jewels contains roughly 476 calories, with 0g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 50g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of candied ones?
Fresh cherries can be used, but they will not provide the same sweetness and texture as candied cherries. If you prefer to use fresh, consider adding a bit of sugar or a glaze to enhance their flavor. Additionally, you might want to reduce the baking time slightly to prevent the cookies from becoming soggy.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
You can substitute butter with an equal amount of coconut oil or a plant-based margarine for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that using coconut oil will impart a subtle coconut flavor, which may complement the citrus notes. If you prefer a healthier alternative, try unsweetened applesauce, although this will change the texture.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make Cherry Jewels gluten-free, substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper binding. Additionally, check that your baking powder is gluten-free. This adjustment will allow you to enjoy these cookies while adhering to a gluten-free diet without sacrificing flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).