Cookies with cherries
Cherry Cookies - A Sweet and Aromatic Delight
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 35 minutes
Number of servings: 24 cookies
The history of cookies is one filled with flavor and innovation. These sweet delicacies were initially designed to preserve ingredients, but they have evolved into a variety of shapes and flavors, becoming a symbol of culinary comfort today. Cherry cookies represent a perfect combination of crunchy texture and juicy filling, bringing a touch of spring to your table, regardless of the season.
Your ingredients will be:
- 250 g room temperature butter
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- Zest of one lemon
- 3 egg yolks
- 400 g flour
- ½ packet of baking powder
- Cherries (about 24, as we will use one for each cookie)
- Granulated sugar (optional, for decoration)
Making these cookies is a true pleasure, and each step will be an opportunity to enjoy the culinary process.
1. Preparing the dough
Start by taking the butter out of the fridge a few minutes before using it. Make sure it is soft for easy mixing. In a large bowl, add the butter and powdered sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to combine these ingredients until you achieve a creamy, fluffy mixture. Adding powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar is the secret to a finer cookie.
2. Adding wet ingredients
Add the egg yolks, vanilla sugar, and lemon zest. Mix well until homogeneous. The lemon zest not only brings a fresh aroma but also a bit of acidity that will balance the sweetness.
3. Incorporating dry ingredients
Sift the flour together with the baking powder directly into the bowl. At first, mix with the spatula, then, when the dough begins to form, switch to manual kneading. It is important not to over-knead; the dough should be homogeneous but not elastic.
4. Chilling the dough
After you have obtained a uniform dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour. This step is essential as it will help achieve an ideal texture and make the dough easier to shape.
5. Forming the cookies
After chilling, take the dough out of the fridge and form balls about 2-3 cm in diameter. If you want a more festive look, you can roll them in granulated sugar before placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Creating spots for cherries
Use the cap of a bottle to create a small indentation in the center of each ball. Each cookie will then receive a cherry in the indentation. These will add not only a delicious taste but also a vibrant splash of color.
7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the cookies for 15 minutes or until they turn slightly golden. Watch carefully, as ovens can vary, and it is important to take them out at the right moment.
8. Cooling and serving
Let the cookies cool on a cooling rack for a few minutes before transferring them to glass containers or an elegant plate. Served warm or at room temperature, these cookies are perfect for an afternoon tea or as a dessert at a festive meal.
Helpful tips:
- You can replace cherries with other seasonal fruits like sour cherries or blueberries to experiment with different flavors.
- If you want an even more intense citrus flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon essence to the dough.
- These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea or a flavored latte.
Calories and nutritional benefits:
One serving of cookie (about 1 ball) has around 100 calories, depending on size and added ingredients. These cookies are rich in healthy fats from butter and contain antioxidants from cherries, making them a delicious and satisfying choice.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use reduced-fat butter instead of regular butter?
Answer: It is preferable to use regular butter for a better texture, but you can try reduced-fat butter for a lighter version.
2. How can I keep the cookies fresh?
Answer: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent drying out.
3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Answer: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookies. Form the balls, place them on a tray, and put them in the freezer. Once they are firm, you can transfer them to a freezer bag.
In conclusion, these cherry cookies are not just a delicacy but also an opportunity to connect with culinary tradition. Whether you make them for family or for a gathering with friends, each cookie will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Try this simple recipe and treat yourself to a piece of happiness, one cookie at a time!
Ingredients: 250 g butter, 150 g powdered sugar, 1/2 packet baking powder, lemon zest, 2 packets vanilla sugar, 3 egg yolks, 400 g flour, cherries
