Cherry Nut Miniatures
Cherry Nut Miniatures are delightful bite-sized treats combining cream cheese, cherries, and nuts with a tender, sweet, and nutty flavor profile, perfect for parties and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream softened cream cheese, margarine, and one-third of the sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, remaining sugar, chopped nuts, and drained maraschino cherries.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until combined.
- Spoon the batter into miniature muffin pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until light brown.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese. You can also substitute the margarine with butter for a richer flavor. If you don't have maraschino cherries, fresh or frozen cherries can work as a substitute, but be sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile, similar to what you might find in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These Cherry Nut Miniatures make a delightful snack or dessert, perfect for parties or afternoon tea. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, and can be served alongside other treats like Chocolate Layer Bars for a varied dessert platter. Topping with a dollop of whipped cream can add an extra touch of indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F until just warmed through, avoiding drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Nut Miniatures contains roughly 791 calories, with 14g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (32% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 954mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While chopped walnuts or pecans are traditional, you can use any nuts you prefer, such as almonds or hazelnuts. Just ensure they are chopped finely to mix well into the batter.
How can I tell when the miniatures are done baking?
The miniatures are done baking when they are lightly browned on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary slightly based on your oven.
Can I freeze these miniatures for later?
Yes, these miniatures freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
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).