Christmas Cherries
Festive and flavorful, these cherry-topped cookies combine citrus, vanilla, and nuts for a delightful treat perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar; add beaten egg yolk, vanilla, orange and lemon rind, and lemon juice and mix well.
- Add flour and chill the dough.
- Roll into small balls 1/2-inch in diameter.
- Roll in slightly beaten egg whites, then in chopped nuts.
- Place on a cookie sheet and press a small piece of candied cherry into the center of each cookie.
- Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening, or try coconut oil for a subtle twist. You can substitute the chopped nuts with crushed graham crackers for a gluten-free option. If you don't have candied cherries, chocolate chips make a delightful alternative. Chill the dough longer if it's too sticky to handle.
Serving Suggestions
These festive cookies are perfect alongside a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of milk. For a holiday dessert spread, pair them with a slice of Angel Food Cake Pie or Southern Pecan Pie(1 Pie). They also make a lovely gift when packaged in decorative tins.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. To enjoy them warm, reheat in a 300°F oven for about 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Cherries contains roughly 73 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
What can I use instead of candied cherries?
If you prefer a different topping, consider using chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even small pieces of fresh fruit. Each will bring a unique flavor to your cookies, making them special in their own right.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Ensure that the other ingredients, like the nuts, are also certified gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
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).