Marie'S Cherry Almond Drops
A sweet, nutty cookie with maraschino cherries and coconut, perfect for tea parties or quick dessert cravings—crispy edges, chewy centers, and a burst of almond flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening, brown sugar, white sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy.
- In a bowl, whisk the plain flour with salt and soda together.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Stir in chopped maraschino cherries.
- Add coconut and almond flavoring, mixing until evenly distributed.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of dough onto a greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden and firm.
- Let cool on the sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the shortening with unsalted butter. If you prefer a lighter texture, consider using half whole wheat flour. Make sure to drain the maraschino cherries well and pat them dry before chopping to prevent excess moisture in the dough. This recipe is also versatile; try adding chopped nuts or using different extracts like vanilla for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or afternoon tea. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea, and they pair beautifully with Strawberries N' Yogurt for a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, try drizzling them with chocolate or serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cherry Almond Drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to two weeks. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their texture and warmth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marie'S Cherry Almond Drops contains roughly 1314 calories, with 12g protein, 167g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2429mg per serving (106% 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 fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
While fresh cherries can be used, they have a different moisture content and flavor. Make sure to pit and chop them, and consider reducing the amount of other liquids in the recipe to maintain the right consistency.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Cherry Almond Drops, substitute the plain flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture. Always check that your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze Cherry Almond Drops! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
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).