ππͺ Amish Cherry Cookies πͺπ
Amish Cherry Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, buttery goodness of traditional Amish cookies with the sweet and tangy flavor of cherries. These cookies are a beloved classic in Amish baking traditions and have found their way into many kitchens around the world. Letβs dive into the history, components, preparation steps, and time needed to make these delicious cookies.
π History:
The Amish people, known for their simple and traditional way of life, have a long history of baking delicious treats. Amish recipes are often passed down through generations, and these Cherry Cookies are no exception. The combination of cherries with classic cookie ingredients creates a unique and memorable flavor that has stood the test of time.
π₯£ Components:
To make Amish Cherry Cookies, youβll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cherries
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
π©βπ³ Preparation Steps:
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Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and then add the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
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Fold in Cherries and Nuts: Gently fold in the dried cherries and chopped nuts, if youβre using them. The cherries will add a sweet and slightly tart flavor, while the nuts provide a nice crunch.
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Chill the Dough: Cover the cookie dough and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will make it easier to handle and prevent excessive spreading during baking.
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Preheat and Shape: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Take small portions of the chilled dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
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Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake; you want the cookies to remain soft and chewy.
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Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. Once they have cooled completely, you can dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a festive appearance.
π Time Needed:
The preparation and baking of Amish Cherry Cookies typically take about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes the time for mixing the dough, chilling it, baking the cookies, and allowing them to cool. Itβs a delightful way to spend an afternoon, and the result is well worth the effort.
So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and enjoy the process of making these Amish Cherry Cookies. They make for a perfect snack or dessert, and the sweet, tangy cherries will leave your taste buds smiling! πππͺ
Iβm glad youβre interested in the nutrition facts and health information for Amish Cherry Cookies. However, itβs important to note that these cookies are typically considered a sweet treat and may not be the healthiest option. Hereβs some general information about the nutritional aspects:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate for One Cookie):
- Calories: Approximately 100-150 calories per cookie (varies based on size and specific ingredients used)
- Total Fat: About 6-8 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3-4 grams
- Cholesterol: 20-30 mg
- Sodium: 50-80 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
- Sugars: 5-8 grams
- Protein: 1-2 grams
Health Information:
- These cookies are relatively high in calories and sugar due to the added sugar and dried cherries.
- They contain saturated fat from butter, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
- The use of nuts adds a source of healthy fats and protein but can also increase calorie content.
Tips for Moderation:
- Enjoy Amish Cherry Cookies as an occasional treat rather than a daily indulgence.
- Be mindful of portion sizes to control calorie intake.
- Consider using whole wheat flour or reducing sugar for a slightly healthier version.
While these cookies are delicious, itβs important to remember that they are a sweet dessert and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, consider consulting with a registered dietitian for personalized advice.