Description

Delight in these Cherry Pie Cookies, featuring a tender, buttery dough filled with sweet cherry preserves and a hint of vanilla. These cookies bring the classic flavors of cherry pie into a perfect handheld treat, with an optional sweet glaze to finish. Ideal for a delightful snack or a charming dessert, these cookies combine a flakey texture with fruity filling for a crowd-pleasing bake.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2-3 tbsp milk (as needed)

Filling

1 cup cherry preserves or jam
1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, to thicken the filling)

Glaze (Optional)

1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
1/4 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the cold cubed butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until well combined. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add milk one tablespoon at a time until it holds together.
Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to roll out and cut.
Make the Cherry Filling: In a small bowl, combine the cherry preserves with cornstarch if using, stirring to thicken the filling slightly. Set aside.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Shape the Cookies: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut circles. Place half of the circles on the baking sheet. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of cherry filling into the center of each circle, then top with another dough circle. Use a fork to press the edges together and seal the cookies.
Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until their edges just turn golden. Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare Optional Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies to add a touch of sweetness and shine.
Serve: Enjoy these Cherry Pie Cookies as a delightful snack or dessert. Their crisp edges and soft cherry centers make them perfect for any occasion.

Notes

Chilling the dough is essential for easier handling and to prevent spreading during baking.
Cornstarch in the cherry filling helps prevent the jam from leaking out and keeps the filling stable during baking.
If you prefer less sweetness, omit the glaze or reduce the powdered sugar amount.
Ensure butter is cold for better dough texture and flakiness.
The dough can be rolled thicker for a softer cookie or thinner for a crisper result, adjust baking time accordingly.
Use fresh or frozen cherries cooked down as a substitute if cherry preserves are unavailable.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American