Cherry Almond Chews

Name: Cherry Almond Chews
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: about 7 dozen
Ingredients: 1 cup shortening; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 3/4 teaspoon almond extract; 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2-1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut; 3/4 cup chopped almonds or pecans, optional; 1 jar (16 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained and halved

Total Time Prep: 15 min. Bake: 15 min./batch

Yield about 7 dozen

Test Kitchen Approved

I make these attractive cherry coconut cookies every Christmas for family and friends. During that busy time of year, I appreciate the fact that they freeze well, so I can make them ahead.

Ingredients

1 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
3/4 teaspoon almond extract
2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2-1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
3/4 cup chopped almonds or pecans, optional
1 jar (16 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained and halved

Directions

In a large bowl, cream shortening and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in extract. Combine flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in coconut and nuts if desired.
Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 in. apart onto lightly greased baking sheets. Place a cherry half in the center of each. Bake at 350° for 12-14 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Nutrition Facts

2 each: 152 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 106mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.

I make these attractive cherry coconut cookies every Christmas for family and friends. During that busy time of year, I appreciate the fact that they freeze well, so I can make them ahead.

Recipe Creator