As the chilly breeze of autumn rolled in, I found myself reminiscing about my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, filled with laughter and the irresistible scent of freshly baked goodies. Inspired by those cherished memories, I decided to create something special that captures both warmth and nostalgia: Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies. These delightful treats are a beautiful marriage of crunchy toasted almonds and vibrant cherry icing, bringing a twist to the classic cookie.
What I love about this recipe is its versatility; it’s as perfect for a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea as it is for impressing guests at your next gathering. Plus, with every bite, you get that satisfying chewiness from the oats, combined with the crumbly goodness of almond cookies – it’s simply blissful! So, if you’re looking to escape the monotony of fast food and indulge in some homemade goodness, grab your apron and let’s dive into this easy yet oh-so-delicious cookie adventure!
Why are Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies amazing?
Unique Flavors: The combination of crunchy almonds and tart cherry icing creates a delightful flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds.
Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, allowing both novice and experienced bakers to shine in the kitchen!
Perfect for Every Occasion: From tea time to festive gatherings, these cookies will impress friends and family alike.
Chewy and Crunchy: Enjoy the incredible contrast of chewy oats and the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds in every bite!
Time-Saving Delight: Bake a batch in under 30 minutes, so you can indulge quickly and easily!
Ready to satisfy your sweet tooth? For more delightful treats, be sure to check out my other cookie recipes!
Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Sliced almonds – 1 cup (100 grams) adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor to the cookies.
- Salted butter – 1 cup (226 grams), softened, helps create a rich and creamy texture for the dough.
- Light brown sugar – 1 cup (213 grams), packed, contributes moisture and a deep caramel flavor.
- Granulated sugar – ¼ cup (50 grams) maintains sweetness without overpowering the almond taste.
- Large egg – 1, it binds the ingredients together for a consistent texture.
- Large egg yolk – 1, at room temperature, enriches the dough for a softer cookie.
- Amaretto – 1 tablespoon, this almond-flavored liqueur intensifies the nutty notes in the cookies.
- Almond extract – ½ teaspoon, reinforces that essential almond flavor found in these indulgent treats.
- All-purpose flour – 1 ¾ cup (210 grams), the backbone of the cookie dough, providing structure and stability.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats – 1 1/3 cup (127 grams), adding heartiness and chewiness to each bite.
- Baking soda – ½ teaspoon, this leavening agent helps the cookies rise and maintain a lovely texture.
- Kosher salt – ½ teaspoon, enhances the overall flavor of the cookies, balancing the sweetness.
For the Cherry Icing
- Frozen pitted tart cherries – 1 cup (150 grams), provide that vibrant color and flavor for the icing.
- Granulated sugar – 2 tablespoons, helps to sweeten the cherry mixture as it cooks down.
- Powdered sugar – 1 ½ cups (170 grams), creates a smooth icing that coats the cookies beautifully.
- Milk of choice – 2 tablespoons, plus more as needed to adjust the icing’s consistency.
- Almond extract – ½ teaspoon, to bring that signature almond flavor into the icing as well.
These Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies that will surely wow your taste buds!
How to Make Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
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Toast the sliced almonds by placing them on the baking sheet and baking for 10 to 13 minutes, stirring halfway through. They should be golden brown and fragrant. Allow to cool for 5 minutes, keeping the oven on.
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Mix the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a stand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until combined. Add the egg, egg yolk, amaretto, and almond extract, mixing again on medium speed until smooth and creamy for about 1 minute.
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Combine the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt in the bowl, mixing on low speed just until everything is mixed, about 1 minute. Add ½ cup of toasted almonds and combine gently on low speed for about 30 seconds.
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Shape the dough into balls using 2 tablespoons of dough each, placing them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. If the dough feels too wet, chill in the fridge for 1 hour before baking.
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Bake the cookies in the oven until the edges are just golden brown, about 10 to 13 minutes. Let them cool on the sheet for 5 to 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Prepare the cherry icing by combining the cherries and sugar in a small pot over medium heat. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes until the cherries are broken down and thickened. Remove from heat.
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Strain the cherry mixture to collect about 1 to 2 tablespoons of cherry liquid. In a medium bowl, whisk this liquid with powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until a thick icing forms. Adjust with more milk if necessary.
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Ice the cooled cookies by spooning 2 teaspoons of icing on top and spreading it out gently. Sprinkle with the remaining toasted almonds and allow the icing to harden completely, about 10 minutes.
Optional: Drizzle with extra cherry juice for added flavor and visual appeal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and swaps that make this recipe uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs while maintaining delicious flavors.
- Nut-Free: Replace almonds with sunflower seeds for a crunchy alternative that everyone can enjoy!
- Fruit Swaps: Use other berries like raspberries or blueberries instead of cherries for a colorful and fruity icing variation.
- Extra Flavor: Add orange zest (1 teaspoon) to the icing for a bright, citrusy note that perfectly complements the cherry.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Top with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for an indulgent touch that adds richness to each bite.
- Chewy Twist: Mix in ½ cup of dried cranberries or apricots for an extra chewy texture and tart sweetness in each cookie.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger into the dough for a warm, spiced flavor, especially delightful in cooler weather.
- Vegan Friendly: Use a plant-based butter substitute, flax eggs, and non-dairy milk to create a vegan version that everyone can enjoy!
These variations allow you to customize the Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies to suit your taste and dietary preferences, making them your perfect homemade treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, make sure you cover it tightly to prevent drying out. Additionally, the toasted almonds can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and shape the chilled dough into cookie balls and bake straight from the fridge. Finish with the cherry icing after the cookies have cooled, and you’ll have delightful treats ready to wow your guests with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies?
Imagine pairing these delectable cookies with treats that amplify their nutty sweetness and tart cherry icing.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream complements the crunchy cookie while adding a delightful creaminess that balances the flavors. Choose a high-quality brand for a luxurious touch!
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Strong Brewed Coffee: The bold, rich flavors of dark roasted coffee enhance the cookies’ almond notes, making this combination a perfect way to start your morning or unwind after a long day.
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Fresh Berry Medley: A colorful assortment of fresh berries adds a burst of freshness that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cookies, creating an inviting and vibrant dessert plate.
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Lemonade Spritzer: This refreshing drink offers a zesty note that cuts through the richness of the icing, cleansing your palate with every sip and making it perfect for warm afternoons.
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Cheese Platter: Serve with a selection of creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which provide a soft texture and mild flavor that pairs wonderfully with the almond crunch and cherry icing.
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Herbal Tea Varieties: A warm cup of chamomile or green tea provides a soothing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, making for a cozy afternoon treat. The lightness of herbal tea elevates the entire experience.
Indulge in these pairings to create a delightful spread that turns your cookie enjoyment into a full-fledged feast!
How to Store and Freeze Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh and delightful for snack time.
Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, place the cookies in the fridge for up to a week in a sealed container, keeping that cherry icing perfectly intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through. Enjoy your Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies anytime!
Tips for the Best Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients, especially the butter and eggs. Fresh components enhance the flavors and ensure a better texture in your cookies.
- Chill if Wet: If your dough feels too sticky, don’t hesitate to chill it in the fridge for an hour. This helps with shaping and prevents spreading during baking.
- Toast Almonds Properly: Watch the almonds closely while toasting. They can go from golden to burnt quickly, which can affect the flavor of your Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies.
- Mix Gently: When incorporating the toasted almonds into the dough, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so aim for a light hand.
- Perfect Icing Consistency: For the cherry icing, achieve the right thickness by adjusting the milk gradually. The icing should be spreadable but not runny—perfect for topping each cookie!
Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of almonds should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely! You can use sliced almonds for this recipe, as they provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. If you can’t find sliced almonds, you can also use whole blanched almonds or even chopped almonds. Just remember to toast them until golden brown for the best flavor.
How should I store the Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer them chilled, you can place them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re in a sealed container to maintain that delicious cherry icing!
Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze your cookies! First, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the cookies to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
What can I do if the cookie dough is too wet?
Very! If you find the dough is too wet to handle, simply cover and chill it in the fridge for about 1 hour. This will help firm it up, making it easier to roll into balls and preventing them from spreading too much while baking.
Are these cookies suitable for those with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, since this recipe contains almonds and almond extract, it’s not safe for those with nut allergies. You could consider making a nut-free version by substituting the almonds with a seed like sunflower seeds, although the flavor profile will be different.
Can I modify the sweetness of the icing?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet icing, you can adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the icing. Start with a smaller quantity and gradually add more until you reach your desired sweetness level. Just ensure that the icing remains thick enough to coat the cookies perfectly!
Iced Cherry Toasted Almond Oatmeal Cookies to Wow Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toast the sliced almonds for 10 to 13 minutes until golden brown and fragrant, then cool for 5 minutes.
- Mix butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a stand mixer on medium for 2 minutes until combined.
- Add egg, yolk, amaretto, and almond extract, mixing until smooth for about 1 minute.
- Combine flour, oats, baking soda, and salt in bowl, mixing on low for about 1 minute. Add ½ cup toasted almonds.
- Shape into balls using 2 tablespoons of dough, placing them 2 inches apart on the sheet.
- Bake until edges are golden brown, about 10 to 13 minutes, then cool on sheet for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Prepare the cherry icing by cooking cherries and sugar in a pot for about 5 minutes.
- Strain mixture to collect 1 to 2 tablespoons of cherry liquid; whisk with powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract.
- Ice cookies with 2 teaspoons of icing and sprinkle with remaining toasted almonds, allowing to harden for about 10 minutes.