As a passionate home cook, I find joy in creating treats that evoke cherished memories. Cherry Pie Cookies are a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts, capturing the essence of a classic cherry pie in a bite-sized cookie. The moment you take a bite, the sweet and tart cherry filling bursts forth, mingling with the buttery, soft cookie dough. It’s like a warm hug from Grandma, reminding me of summer picnics and family gatherings. These cookies are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of flavors that bring everyone together. Trust me, once you try these Cherry Pie Cookies, they’ll become a staple in your home!
What is Cherry Pie Cookies?
Cherry Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cherry pie, combining the rich flavors of sweet cherries with a soft, buttery cookie. Originating from American baking traditions, these cookies encapsulate the essence of summer fruit desserts, making them a favorite among families. The use of cherry pie filling not only simplifies the process but also ensures a burst of flavor in every bite. With their charming appearance and delicious taste, Cherry Pie Cookies are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie Cookies
- **Convenient**: Quick to prepare and bake, making them perfect for busy schedules.
- **Delicious Taste**: The combination of buttery cookie and sweet cherry filling is irresistible.
- **Family-Friendly**: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these delightful treats.
- **Versatile**: Easily adaptable with different fruit fillings for variety.
Who It’s For
Cherry Pie Cookies are ideal for busy families looking for a quick dessert, health-conscious cooks who appreciate fruit-based treats, and food lovers eager to explore new flavors. Whether you’re baking for a school event or a cozy family dinner, these cookies will surely impress everyone.
When to Cook It
These cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions, including weeknight dinners, holiday celebrations, and casual get-togethers. They also make a delightful addition to lunchboxes or as a sweet treat after a family meal. Anytime you crave a taste of nostalgia, Cherry Pie Cookies are the answer!
How to Make the Perfect Cherry Pie Cookies
Ingredients
- **1 cup unsalted butter, softened**: Provides a rich, creamy base for the cookies.
- **1 cup granulated sugar**: Sweetens the dough and helps achieve a tender texture.
- **1 large egg**: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a warm, sweet note.
- **2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour**: Forms the structure of the cookies; can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- **1 teaspoon baking powder**: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
- **1/2 teaspoon salt**: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- **1 cup cherry pie filling**: The star ingredient that provides the delicious cherry flavor; feel free to swap with other fruit fillings like blueberry or apple.
- **Powdered sugar for dusting**: Adds a sweet finishing touch; optional but recommended for presentation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking.
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be pale and airy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. The batter will become smooth and glossy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- Take a tablespoon of dough and flatten it in your hand. Place a small spoonful of cherry pie filling in the center.
- Fold the dough over the filling and roll it into a ball, sealing the edges well to prevent leakage during baking.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The aroma of cherries and cookies will fill your kitchen!
- Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
For People with Diabetes: Sugar Substitutes
- **Stevia**: A natural sweetener with zero calories; use sparingly as it is much sweeter than sugar.
- **Monk fruit**: Another natural sweetener that has no calories and a similar sweetness to sugar.
- **Allulose**: A low-calorie sugar that behaves like sugar in baking; it’s a great option for maintaining texture.
Note: Avoid using honey or maple syrup as substitutes, as they can affect the texture and moisture of the cookies.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Cooling rack
Top Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- **Chill the Dough**: Many chefs recommend chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavors.
- **Use Quality Ingredients**: Opt for high-quality butter and fresh cherry pie filling. The better the ingredients, the more delicious your cookies will be!
- **Experiment with Spices**: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile of your Cherry Pie Cookies, giving them a warm, cozy touch.
- **Don’t Overbake**: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center for the best texture.
- **Presentation Matters**: For a professional touch, dust the cookies with powdered sugar just before serving. It adds a beautiful finish and a hint of sweetness.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- **Room Temperature**: Store Cherry Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- **Refrigeration**: For longer freshness, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just make sure they are well-sealed to prevent drying out.
- **Freezing**: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- **Reheating**: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm.
- **Thawing**: If frozen, let the cookies thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before reheating for the best texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Overmixing the Dough**: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Aim for just combined ingredients to keep them soft and tender.
- **Skipping the Chilling Step**: Not chilling the dough can cause cookies to spread too much while baking. A short chill helps maintain their shape.
- **Using Cold Ingredients**: Make sure your butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature. This ensures a smooth batter and better texture.
- **Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately**: Baking is a science, so use proper measuring tools. Too much flour or sugar can drastically change the outcome.
- **Ignoring Baking Time**: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, while underbaking can result in a gooey center.
FAQs About Cherry Pie Cookies
Q: Can I use other fruit fillings for Cherry Pie Cookies?
Yes, you can easily substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like blueberry, apple, or peach for a delightful twist.
Q: Are Cherry Pie Cookies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these cookies are vegetarian-friendly as they do not contain any meat or animal-derived ingredients.
Q: How long do Cherry Pie Cookies last?
It depends on how you store them. At room temperature, they last about 5 days, while refrigerated, they can last up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze Cherry Pie Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure to store them in an airtight container, and they will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Q: Do Cherry Pie Cookies need to be refrigerated?
No, they do not need to be refrigerated, but storing them in the fridge can extend their freshness for a week.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Cherry Pie Cookies
Cherry Pie Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the flavors of summer into every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to impress. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this recipe! Have you tried making Cherry Pie Cookies? Share your experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow baking enthusiasts!
Print
Cherry Pie Cookies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious cookies that capture the flavor of cherry pie in a bite-sized treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Take a tablespoon of dough and flatten it in your hand, placing a small spoonful of cherry pie filling in the center.
- Fold the dough over the filling and roll it into a ball, sealing the edges.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
Notes
- For a more intense cherry flavor, add a few drops of almond extract to the dough.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Feel free to substitute the cherry filling with other fruit fillings if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Cherry Pie Cookies, Cherry Cookies, Dessert Recipes