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Chewy Cherry Almond Thumbprint Cookies

chewy cherry almond thumbprint cookies - featured image

These chewy cherry almond thumbprint cookies combine a tender, chewy base with tart cherry jam and crunchy toasted almond slivers for a nostalgic and irresistible treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar, packed
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (160g) cherry preserves or jam
  • ½ cup (50g) toasted almond slivers

Instructions

  1. Toast the almond slivers: Place ½ cup (50g) almond slivers in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  3. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat 1 cup (227g) softened unsalted butter with ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar and ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add eggs and extract: Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon almond extract until combined.
  5. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt.
  6. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing on low speed or folding with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Shape the cookies: Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Gently press your thumb or the back of a spoon into the center of each ball to create an indentation.
  8. Fill thumbprints: Spoon about ½ teaspoon of cherry preserves into each indentation. Do not overfill.
  9. Sprinkle toasted almonds: Top each cookie with a few toasted almond slivers, pressing lightly so they stick.
  10. Bake: Place baking sheets in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are golden but centers are still soft.
  11. Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

If dough feels too soft, chill in fridge for 10-15 minutes before shaping. Avoid overbaking to keep cookies chewy. Rotate baking sheets halfway through baking for even cooking. Use pure almond extract for best flavor. Dough can be prepared ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours for improved flavor and easier shaping.

Nutrition

Keywords: cherry almond thumbprint cookies, chewy cookies, homemade cookies, toasted almond slivers, cherry jam cookies, easy cookie recipe, holiday cookies