There’s something irresistibly charming about Giada’s Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies. With their buttery base, chewy bursts of tart cherries, and nutty crunch from toasted almonds, these cookies strike a perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. Finished with a delicate vanilla icing, they’re a treat that feels equally at home at a holiday gathering or alongside an afternoon espresso.

What Makes Giada’s Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies Special

These cookies combine Italian-inspired flavors with a slice-and-bake simplicity that makes them ideal for both experienced bakers and beginners. The combination of almond extract, cherries, and a touch of cinnamon gives them a layered aroma and flavor profile reminiscent of a European pastry. Even better, the dough can be prepared ahead, chilled, and sliced whenever you’re ready to bake — perfect for busy schedules or last-minute guests.

Ingredients and Their Role in the Recipe

• Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and the tender crumb that defines these cookies.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve a lightly golden edge during baking.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the depth of flavor and balances the tartness of cherries.
• Almond Extract: Brings a signature nutty aroma and Italian-style elegance.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds subtle warmth and complexity without overpowering.
• Fine Sea Salt: Rounds out the flavors and enhances sweetness.
• Egg: Binds ingredients together for a cohesive, smooth dough.
• All-Purpose Flour: The structural base that gives these cookies their soft but stable texture.
• Dried Tart Cherries: Add chewy texture and tangy contrast to the buttery base.
• Slivered Blanched Almonds (Toasted): Contribute crunch, nuttiness, and visual appeal.
• Powdered Sugar: The base of the icing for a sweet, silky finish.
• Water: Adjusts icing consistency for perfect drizzling.

Smart Ingredient Swaps and Flavor Alternatives

If you’re missing a few ingredients or want to experiment, there are plenty of delicious substitutions:
• Dried Apricots: For a slightly sweeter, sunny twist, swap the cherries with chopped dried apricots.
• Toasted Pine Nuts: Replace almonds for a Mediterranean flavor note.
• Orange Extract: Use this instead of almond for a citrusy aroma that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
• White Chocolate Chips: Add for a creamy contrast to the tart fruit.
• Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Substitute 1:1 to make the cookies gluten-free without sacrificing texture.

How to Make Giada’s Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies

Cream the Base: Beat butter, sugar, vanilla, almond extract, cinnamon, and salt until light and fluffy. Then blend in the egg.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in flour on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing for tender cookies.
Fold in Cherries and Almonds: Stir in dried cherries and toasted almonds with a wooden spoon.
Shape and Chill: Form the dough into a 12-inch log, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Preheat and Prepare: Set oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Slice and Bake: Cut the chilled dough into ½-inch slices and bake for about 15 minutes until edges are golden.
Cool Completely: Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool for 30 minutes before icing.
Make the Icing: Whisk powdered sugar, vanilla, and water until smooth and drizzle consistency.
Decorate: Drizzle icing over cookies on a wire rack, letting excess drip off. Allow icing to set for about 1 hour before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Results

• Chill the Dough: This step is key for achieving clean slices and preventing spreading.
• Don’t Overbake: These cookies should be just golden around the edges for a soft interior.
• Toasting Almonds: Always toast your almonds — it deepens flavor and adds crunch.
• Adjust Icing Texture: Add a few extra drops of water if it’s too thick or a touch more sugar if too thin.
• Flavor Boost: A pinch of orange zest in the icing brings a fresh note that complements the cherries beautifully.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Giada’s Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies are delightful with coffee, cappuccino, or a dessert wine like Moscato. For a festive platter, pair them with biscotti or almond shortbread. You can also:
• Drizzle with Dark Chocolate: For a more decadent, grown-up version.
• Add a Sprinkle of Sea Salt: To highlight the sweetness and bring balance.
• Serve with Ice Cream: Vanilla or almond gelato turns these cookies into a stunning dessert.

Seasonal and Make-Ahead Tips

These cookies are perfect for the holidays — their jewel-toned cherries and elegant icing make them a visual standout on cookie trays. The dough can be prepared and refrigerated up to three days in advance or frozen for up to a month. Simply slice and bake as needed for freshly baked cookies anytime.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies Year-Round

Whether for Christmas, a tea party, or an afternoon snack, Giada’s Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies embody the kind of effortless Italian charm that Giada De Laurentiis is famous for. They’re easy enough to make on a whim yet impressive enough to serve at special occasions — buttery, fruity, and perfectly iced for that finishing touch of elegance.

Bringing It All Together

Giada’s Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies are a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Every bite delivers a delightful contrast — the buttery cookie, the tart chewiness of cherries, the crunch of almonds, and the sweet drizzle of vanilla icing. These cookies strike a beautiful balance between rustic comfort and elegant flavor, making them an instant favorite for holidays, gift boxes, or afternoon tea.

Their make-ahead versatility and consistent results are what make them a go-to recipe for both seasoned bakers and casual cooks. When stored in an airtight container, they maintain their texture and flavor for days — though they rarely last that long. Once you’ve baked these, you’ll understand why Giada’s Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies continue to capture hearts and taste buds alike.

Frequently Asked Questions About Giada’s Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies

1. Can I make Giada’s Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely. The dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to one month. When ready to bake, simply slice the chilled or slightly thawed dough and proceed with the recipe as directed.

2. What can I substitute for dried cherries?
If you can’t find dried cherries, dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, or even raisins work beautifully. Each will add its own unique flavor twist while keeping the chewy texture intact.

3. How should I store these cookies for maximum freshness?
Store the cooled, iced cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze them without icing, then thaw and drizzle with fresh icing when serving.

4. Can I skip the icing or use a different topping?
Yes. These cookies taste delicious even without icing, offering a more shortbread-like experience. You can also dip them halfway in melted white or dark chocolate for a decadent variation that pairs beautifully with the almond and cherry notes.

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