Holiday Specials
Festive almond-flavored cookies featuring chopped nuts and cherry garnishes, perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges, offering a rich, creamy, and crunchy treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the cream cheese and shortening together until smooth.
- Gradually add sugar, beating well after each addition.
- Add the egg and almond flavoring, beating until fluffy.
- Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt, then stir into the mixture.
- Chill the dough for at least 1 hour before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the shortening with unsalted butter for a richer flavor, but this may alter the texture slightly. If you’re looking for a nut-free version, simply omit the finely chopped nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa. They also pair beautifully with a slice of Cinnamon Spiced Banana Nut Bread for a comforting dessert platter during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Specials contains roughly 944 calories, with 12g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1480mg per serving (64% 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 flavoring instead of almond?
Absolutely! You can substitute almond flavoring with vanilla extract or even coconut extract for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to taste, as some extracts may be stronger than others.
What type of nuts work best in this recipe?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are great options that add a nice crunch and flavor. However, feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts, depending on your preference. Just make sure they are finely chopped for even distribution.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make these cookies more festive, consider adding colorful sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies on top before baking. You could also drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra special touch during the holiday season.
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).