Mom'S Cherry Almond Cookies
Mom's Cherry Almond Cookies are delightful treats featuring sweet cherries, nutty pecans, and a hint of almond, perfect for holidays or casual gatherings with a nostalgic touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, shortening, and eggs until well combined.
- Add the self-rising flour and blend into the creamed mixture.
- Stir in chopped cherries, almond extract, and chopped pecans if desired.
- Shape the dough into balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 18 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with butter. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. If cherries are out of season, dried cherries or even cranberries can work as a tasty alternative. Make sure to chop them finely for even distribution in the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These Mom's Cherry Almond Cookies are delightful as a standalone treat but pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Aunt Grace's Banana Pudding for a sweet dessert spread. They also make excellent gifts when packaged in a decorative box during the holidays.
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 for up to three months. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Cherry Almond Cookies contains roughly 2100 calories, with 21g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 170g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 18g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans add a great crunch, you can substitute them with walnuts or even almonds for a different flavor. Just make sure to chop them roughly so they mix evenly into the cookie dough.
What can I do if my dough is too dry?
If your dough feels too dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water to help bring it together. This can help with the mixing process and ensure your cookies stay moist. Be cautious not to add too much, as you want to maintain the dough's structure.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Cherry Almond Cookies, substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper structure. Adjust the baking time as needed, since gluten-free flours can sometimes bake differently.
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).