When life gives you a can of cherry pie filling, you turn it into something extraordinary! I was twiddling my thumbs one rainy afternoon, yearning for a sweet treat that didn’t involve a trip to the bakery. That’s when the idea of Cherry Pie Cookies struck me. Imagine a delightful blend of soft, buttery cookie, bursting with cherry goodness and frosted with creamy buttercream. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug while looking utterly impressive on any dessert platter.
These cookies are not just quick to whip up; they also pack a punch of flavor that will leave both family and friends craving more. Perfect for potlucks or cozy evenings at home, they can effortlessly elevate your dessert game without demanding hours in the kitchen. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll soon be indulging in these delicious bites, all while realizing that homemade treats are where it’s at. Let’s dive into how to create these Cherry Pie Cookies that are sure to become a cherished favorite!
Why are Cherry Pie Cookies so irresistible?
Deliciously sweet and tangy, these cookies combine buttery goodness with the vibrant flavor of cherry pie, making each bite a treat!
Quick to make—with only 15 minutes total time, they fit perfectly into your busy schedule.
Creative twist on traditional cookies that impresses at gatherings or dinner parties.
Versatile enough to delight both kids and adults alike, ensuring crowd appeal.
Minimal ingredients mean you probably have everything on hand, so you can whip them up anytime!
Elegant presentation with just a touch of frosting and cherries makes them look as good as they taste. Enjoy baking these delightful cookies for an experience everyone will love!
Cherry Pie Cookie Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• 1 cup butter – Softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar – Adds just the right sweetness without grittiness.
• 1 egg – Helps bind the cookies together perfectly.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract – Infuses a delightful flavor; vanilla bean paste gives an extra touch of elegance.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the dough, providing the right structure.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – Ensures the cookies rise beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness for an irresistible flavor.
For the Cherry Filling
• 1 (21 oz.) can cherry pie filling – The star ingredient that brings the cherry pie flavor to life!
For the Buttercream Frosting
• 1 cup shortening – Creates a smooth frosting with great stability.
• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting; feel free to adjust for your taste.
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream – Adds richness and a perfect spreadable consistency.
These Cherry Pie Cookie ingredients will guide you to create a dessert that’s not just delicious but also a treat for the eyes! Happy baking!
How to Make Cherry Pie Cookies
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Cream Together
Start by creaming together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. -
Add Wet Ingredients
Incorporate 1 egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste (or extract) into the creamed mixture. Mix until fully combined, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. -
Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Continue until a soft dough forms, giving it a good stir to ensure everything is well combined. -
Form the Cookies
Grab a Muffin Top Pan and press 3 tablespoons of dough into each section. Aim for an even layer to ensure uniform baking. -
Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the cookies for 10 minutes until they’re lightly golden. Enjoy the enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen! -
Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. This step is vital for achieving the perfect texture! -
Prepare Buttercream
In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of shortening, 2 ½ cups of powdered sugar, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Transfer this delightful frosting into a piping bag fitted with a #21 tip. -
Add Cherry Filling
Once your cookies are cooled, place about 8 cherries from the cherry pie filling on top of each cookie. This adds a burst of flavor reminiscent of the best cherry pies! -
Frost
Pipe the buttercream frosting around the edges of each cookie to create a beautiful finish. The frosting not only elevates the look but adds a delicious balance to the tart cherries!
Optional: Drizzle some extra cherry juice over the top for an added touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Pie Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to keep it fresh. The dough can also be formed into cookie shapes and frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw them in the fridge before baking. For the frosting, you can whip it up ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When you’re ready to serve, simply pipe the frosting, add the cherries, and they’ll be just as delicious as when freshly baked!
Cherry Pie Cookies Customizations
Feel free to embellish your Cherry Pie Cookies with these delightful variations that tempt the taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a joyful, inclusive treat.
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Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based delight.
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Nutty Twist: Add 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for a crunchy texture. The earthiness of nuts complements the sweet cherries beautifully.
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Chocolate Drizzle: After frosting, drizzle melted dark chocolate over each cookie. This adds a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the cookie dough to create an unexpected spicy contrast with the sweet cherries.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest into the dough for a bright and zesty flavor that lifts the profile of the cookies.
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Cranberry Swap: Instead of cherry pie filling, use cranberries or mixed berry filling for a fresh flavor twist. A perfect choice for those seeking something tart!
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More Fruit: Add sliced fresh strawberries or blueberries on top for an additional fruity layer. The burst of fresh fruit will elevate your cookie game!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Pie Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Cherry Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their delightful softness.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent any fridge odors from affecting their taste.
Freezer: To freeze, individually wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For the best results, thaw cookies in the fridge overnight, then warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before enjoying!
Expert Tips for Cherry Pie Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming, resulting in a lighter cookie dough.
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Proper Cooling: Let the cookies cool completely before frosting. This avoids a melty mess and ensures your buttercream stays perfectly intact.
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Piping Technique: Use a steady hand when piping the frosting. For a clean look, start from the outer edge and work your way inward with your buttercream frosting.
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Cherry Placement: Don’t skimp on the cherries! Adding about 8 cherries per cookie guarantees every bite is packed with that delicious cherry pie filling.
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Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time—10 minutes is perfect! Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so ensure they’re just lightly golden.
These tips will guide you to create Cherry Pie Cookies that not only taste amazing but also look fantastic on any dessert table!
What to Serve with Cherry Pie Cookies?
Nothing pairs better with these delightful treats than a touch of creativity and whimsy to create a full and satisfying meal.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream complements the tartness of cherry beautifully, making each bite divine.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds an airy lightness that enhances the sweetness of the cookies without overpowering them.
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Coffee or Espresso: A robust cup of coffee perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies, providing a warm and comforting experience.
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Simple Fruit Salad: Juicy fruits like strawberries and blueberries can freshen up your dessert table, providing a pleasant contrast to the richness of the cookies.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a bit of warm chocolate sauce over the cookies elevates their indulgence, creating a decadent dessert that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing glass of sparkling lemonade brings a bright citrus note, cutting through the sweetness and refreshing your palate.
Treat yourself and your loved ones by pairing these Cherry Pie Cookies with delicious accompaniments that will elevate the entire experience!
Cherry Pie Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cherries for my cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for a cherry pie filling that contains whole cherries and a rich, syrupy sauce. You want bright, plump cherries without any dark spots or signs of fermentation. Brands with natural ingredients usually produce better-tasting fillings.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! Store your Cherry Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just make sure they’re wrapped well to avoid fridge odors impacting their delicious cherry flavor!
Can I freeze Cherry Pie Cookies? What’s the best way?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cherry Pie Cookies, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a zip-top freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back their lovely softness.
What should I do if my cookie dough seems too crumbly?
If your dough feels too crumbly, it’s likely due to incorrect measurements or overly divided butter and sugar. Add a teaspoon of milk or water gradually while mixing until the dough combines more easily. Alternatively, ensure your butter is adequately softened before you start for a more cohesive dough.
Are Cherry Pie Cookies safe for everyone in my family, including pets?
Great question! While these cookies are delightful for humans, they should be kept away from pets. The sugar and butter can upset their stomachs. Plus, always double-check for any allergies—cherry pie filling can sometimes contain other allergens like preservatives or artificial ingredients, so those with allergies should be cautious.
Cherry Pie Cookies That Will Brighten Your Day Instantly
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate 1 egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla into the creamed mixture.
- Gradually mix in 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Press 3 tablespoons of dough into each section of the Muffin Top Pan.
- Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
- Beat together 1 cup of shortening, 2 ½ cups of powdered sugar, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream.
- Place about 8 cherries on top of each cooled cookie.
- Pipe the buttercream around the edges of each cookie.
