If you have a soft spot for all things cherry and love a cookie that feels like a mini pie in every bite, this Cherry Pie Cookies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These cookies brilliantly capture the nostalgic charm of cherry pie with a tender, buttery dough wrapped around luscious cherry preserves and finished with a sweet, delicate glaze. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself to an afternoon indulgence, these Cherry Pie Cookies strike the perfect balance between fruity freshness and comforting sweetness, making them absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Cherry Pie Cookies Recipe lies in simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create unforgettable flavors and textures. Each component works harmoniously to give you that perfect cookie with just the right balance of softness, sweetness, and that cherry burst.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and tenderness essential for a flaky, soft cookie base.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Adds a gentle lift to keep the cookies light and airy instead of dense.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the overall taste.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes: Gives richness and creates a tender, buttery crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough perfectly without overpowering the cherry filling.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough together while contributing slight moisture and richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile with warm, inviting notes.
- 2-3 tbsp milk (as needed): Helps bring the dough to just the right consistency to roll out easily.
- 1 cup cherry preserves or jam: The star of the show, packing a juicy, fruity punch in every bite.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional): Thickens the filling so it stays nicely inside the cookies while baking.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: For crafting a simple yet irresistible glaze.
- 2 tbsp milk: Blends with powdered sugar to create the perfect drizzle consistency.
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a subtle aromatic touch to the glaze.
How to Make Cherry Pie Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl so everything is evenly distributed. Then, in a separate bowl, cream the cold, cubed butter with granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture looks light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract next, beating until everything is well combined. Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet ones, mixing gently just until the dough forms. If you notice your dough feels too dry or crumbly, add milk a tablespoon at a time until it comes together smoothly but remains slightly firm.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Wrapping the dough in plastic wrap and chilling it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes is key to ensuring it firms up, making it so much easier to roll out and cut into perfectly shaped cookies without sticking or tearing.
Step 3: Prepare the Cherry Filling
While the dough chills, mix your cherry preserves with cornstarch in a small bowl—this little addition helps thicken the filling, so it doesn’t run all over the baking sheet. Set this fruity mixture aside and let the flavors meld while you preheat the oven.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Tray
Get your oven ready by heating it to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
On a flour-dusted surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut circles from the dough. Place half of these circles on your baking sheet, spoon about one teaspoon of the cherry filling onto each, then top each with another dough circle. Seal the edges using a fork, pressing gently to create a pretty pattern and trap the filling inside.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until you see the edges turn a lovely light golden brown. Once baked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool down completely, allowing that filling to set nicely inside without leaking.
Step 7: Make and Drizzle the Glaze
Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract together until smooth and pourable. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled cookies to add an extra layer of sweetness and that irresistible glossy finish that makes these cookies picture-perfect.
Step 8: Enjoy Your Cherry Pie Cookies Recipe
The final step? Relish the goodness of these Cherry Pie Cookies Recipe treats anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up, or impress family and friends with your baking skills and unbeatable flavor combo.
How to Serve Cherry Pie Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few fresh cherries or a light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving can make your Cherry Pie Cookies look as delightful as they taste. A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds can also add a lovely crunch and a nutty flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert or alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. A dollop of whipped cream on the side can also elevate the experience beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to jazz up your presentation? Serve these cookies stacked on a vintage plate tied with a rustic ribbon for gifting, or create a cookie platter with assorted fruit jams and fresh berries. You can even sandwich a small piece of cream cheese between two cookies for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cherry pie cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh and soft for up to 3 days. For best taste, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, ready to thaw when the craving hits.
Reheating
To enjoy your cookies warm and gooey, heat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This brings back that freshly baked charm instantly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry preserves?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries work beautifully but make sure to cook them down slightly with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a thicker filling that’ll hold up well inside the cookies during baking.
Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
While you can use salted butter, it’s best to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to keep the flavor balanced. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the overall seasoning.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. Just be mindful that texture can vary slightly depending on the blend you choose.
Will these cookies keep well for a few days?
Definitely. Stored airtight at room temperature, they stay delicious for about 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is your best bet.
What other fillings can I try with this recipe?
Feel free to experiment with other fruit jams like raspberry, strawberry, or apricot. A tangy lemon curd would also be a delightful variation for a zesty twist.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about a cookie that transports you right to your grandma’s kitchen, and this Cherry Pie Cookies Recipe does exactly that. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and sure to become a cherished favorite in your dessert lineup. So grab your apron and your favorite cherry jam, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the warm aroma of freshly baked goodness!
