Cherry Gems Cookies Recipe

Ingredients for Cherry Gems Cookies

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Dried Cherries
• Almonds

How to Make Cherry Gems Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) softened unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, ¾ cup packed light brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries (or fresh cherries, pitted and chopped) and ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll into two logs, each about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Wrap each log tightly in waxed paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
8. Once chilled, slice the logs into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
9. Place the cookies onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.