Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies with Vanilla Icing

Why Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies with Vanilla Icing?

Imagine biting into a golden, crispy cookie bursting with tart dried cherries and crunchy toasted almonds, finished with a silky drizzle of vanilla icing. This Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies with Vanilla Icing recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that satisfy your sweet tooth with every bite. The combination of the fruit’s tanginess and nutty richness creates a sophisticated cookie perfect for sharing or gifting. Whether for a cozy afternoon treat or a festive gathering, these cookies bring both warmth and elegance to your baking repertoire.

Health Benefits & Nutrition

These cookies aren’t just tasty—they offer some nutritional perks too. Almonds provide healthy monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, known for supporting heart health and skin vitality (American Heart Association). Dried cherries add natural antioxidants called anthocyanins, which may reduce inflammation and promote joint health (Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry). The moderate sugar content keeps sweetness balanced without overwhelming your diet. However, if you have nut allergies or are pregnant, consult with a healthcare professional before enjoying these treats.

Ingredients & Preparation

Recipe Card

Prep Time	12 minutes
Inactive Time	2 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	2 hours 57 minutes
Yield	24 cookies
Calories (per cookie)	128
Diet Tags	Vegetarian

Full Ingredient List

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon pure almond extract
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 large egg
• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup coarsely chopped dried tart cherries
• ½ cup slivered blanched almonds, toasted and coarsely chopped
• For the icing:
• 2¾ cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons water, plus more as needed

Equipment Needed

• Electric mixer (hand or stand mixer)
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or rubber spatula
• Plastic wrap
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack
• Whisk for icing
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife for chopping dried cherries and almonds

Tips for Choosing Quality Ingredients

• Select unsalted butter to control the salt level in your cookies.
• Use fresh dried tart cherries for optimal tartness and chewiness.
• Toast slivered almonds lightly in a dry pan until golden to release their nutty aroma.
• Choose pure vanilla and almond extracts for authentic, clean flavors.
• Sift powdered sugar to create a smooth, lump-free icing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Cookie Dough (12 minutes active)

In a large bowl, beat ½ cup softened unsalted butter and ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon almond extract, ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon sea salt. Blend to combine. Crack in 1 large egg and beat until smooth.

Step 2: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Mix-ins (2 minutes)

Reduce mixer speed to low. Gradually add 1¼ cups all-purpose flour, mixing just until combined. Transfer the dough to a large bowl and fold in ¾ cup chopped dried tart cherries and ½ cup toasted, chopped slivered almonds with a wooden spoon.

Step 3: Shape and Chill Dough (at least 2 hours)

Shape the dough into a 12-inch long log about 1½ inches in diameter on a sheet of plastic wrap. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up. You can prepare the dough up to 3 days ahead—just keep refrigerated.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies (15 minutes at 350°F)

Position a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Slice the chilled dough log crosswise into ½-inch thick rounds. Place cookies on the sheets about 1 inch apart. Bake for 15 minutes or until the edges turn golden and cookies puff slightly. Let cool on wire racks for 30 minutes before icing.

Step 5: Prepare and Apply Vanilla Icing (10 minutes)

In a medium bowl, whisk 2¾ cups sifted powdered sugar with 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Slowly add 3 tablespoons water, one teaspoon at a time, until the icing reaches a drizzleable consistency. Place cooled cookies on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Drizzle icing over cookies using a spoon or fork, letting excess drip. Allow icing to set about 1 hour before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

• Nut-Free Version: Replace almonds with toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch without allergens.
• Fruit Swap: Use dried cranberries or golden raisins instead of dried cherries for a different fruity tang.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend; add ¼ teaspoon xanthan gum if not included.
• Icing Alternatives: For a citrus twist, mix powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice instead of vanilla water.

Storage & Shelf Life

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep them separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies after icing, separated by parchment paper, in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Signs of spoilage include a stale or rancid smell, discoloration, or mold growth—discard if any are present.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies

• Use softened, not melted, butter to maintain the right dough texture and prevent spreading during baking.
• Toasting almonds enhances their nutty flavor and crunch—watch carefully to avoid burning.
• Chilling the dough is essential to firm up the fat and ingredients, resulting in crisp edges and tender centers.
• Slice the dough log evenly for cookies that bake uniformly and have a consistent shape.
• Drizzle icing when cookies are fully cooled to prevent melting and ensure a beautiful glossy finish.

When is the best time to eat Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies With Vanilla Icing?

These cookies are perfect for any time you crave a sweet treat—whether with your morning coffee, as an afternoon pick-me-up, or as a dessert. Their balanced sweetness and nutty texture make them ideal for festive occasions or cozy moments at home.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance. Keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator until ready to slice and bake. This resting time also improves flavor and texture.

How can I prevent cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure butter is softened but not melted before mixing. Also, chill the dough thoroughly so the fat firms up, preventing excess spreading during baking.

Can I use sweetened dried cherries instead of tart ones?

Yes, but tart dried cherries provide a nice balance to the cookie’s sweetness. Sweetened cherries may make the cookie taste sweeter and less tangy.

Is it possible to skip the almond extract?

While almond extract adds a distinct nutty aroma that complements the cookies, you can omit it if unavailable. The flavor will be milder but still delicious.

How do I store icing-covered cookies?

Store iced cookies in an airtight container at room temperature once the icing has fully set. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

What if I want thicker or softer cookies?

Cut dough slices slightly thicker before baking for a softer, chewier cookie. Reduce baking time by 1–2 minutes to maintain softness.

Can I substitute powdered sugar with granulated sugar in icing?

Powdered sugar dissolves easily and creates a smooth icing. Granulated sugar will leave a gritty texture, so it’s best avoided for icing.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you enjoy these rich cookies, you might also appreciate other simple, wholesome baked treats. Try the 3 ingredient banana bread with oats or the equally delicious 3 ingredient banana bread healthy no sugar. Both are quick to prepare and packed with natural goodness that complements your baking collection.

Conclusion

This Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies with Vanilla Icing recipe combines vibrant flavors and satisfying textures for a truly delightful homemade treat. Its approachable steps and versatile variations make it a great addition to your baking favorites. If you try this recipe, share your experience, rate it, or leave a comment below—we’d love to hear how your cookies turn out!