Cherry Cookies

Cherry Cookies – a delicious recipe for unforgettable moments

If you are looking for a cookie recipe that will bring a smile to your face and turn any moment into a celebration, you have come to the right place! Cherry cookies are a perfect combination of the sweetness of the fruit and the crunchy texture of the biscuits. This simple and quick recipe will spark your cooking desire and will surely become a favorite in your home.

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 20 cookies

Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons lard (or butter, if you prefer)
- 100 g sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (approximately 5 g)
- Zest from 1/2 lemon (for a fresh taste)
- A pinch of salt
- 150 ml milk
- 300 g flour

Recipe history:
It is said that cherry cookies were created out of the desire to combine sweet and tart, making them ideal for any occasion. These cookies, simple to prepare yet full of flavor, are perfect for serving at festive meals or as a sweet snack every day.

Ingredient tips:
- Lard is a traditional choice and gives a lovely texture to the cookies. If you want a lighter version, you can use butter, but make sure it is at room temperature to incorporate well.
- Cherries are seasonal fruits, and if you don't have fresh ones, you can use jam or compote, but check that they are not too wet to avoid affecting the dough's consistency.
- Lemon zest not only adds a fresh taste but also a wonderful aroma.

Preparation technique:
1. Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a large bowl, add the 3 tablespoons of lard and sugar. Mix well until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy. It is essential to incorporate air at this stage to achieve fluffier cookies.
3. Add the egg yolks, continuing to mix. They will provide a rich taste and pleasant texture.
4. In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the lard mixture, alternating with the milk. Knead gently until you achieve a smooth and elastic dough.
5. Finally, incorporate the lemon zest, which will add a note of freshness.
6. With slightly oiled hands, form small balls from the dough (about the size of a walnut). Place them on the prepared tray, leaving enough space between them as they will expand in the oven.
7. Use your finger or a tool to make a dent in the center of each ball, then add a small teaspoon of cherry jam to each.
8. Bake the cookies for 25-30 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges.
9. Once the cookies are ready, let them cool on a rack to firm up a bit.

Serving suggestions:
These cherry cookies are delicious served warm but also at room temperature. You can accompany them with a cup of green tea or coffee, or even a glass of cold milk for a complete treat.

Possible variations:
- If you want to add a chocolate note, you can replace some of the flour with cocoa and add chocolate chips to the dough.
- Instead of cherries, you can use other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a different version.
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add some chopped nuts or almonds to the dough.

Nutritional benefits:
These cherry cookies, due to the ingredients used, contain a moderate amount of calories, and cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Flour provides necessary carbohydrates for energy, while lard brings healthy fats.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of fat instead of lard?
Yes, you can use butter or even coconut oil for a vegan version.
2. How can I keep the cookies fresh longer?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain their freshness.
3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies before baking them. Take them out of the freezer a few hours before baking and follow the usual steps.

Cherry cookies are more than just a simple snack; they are an explosion of flavors and a wonderful way to bring joy into your home. So, put on your chef's attire and let yourself be carried away by the flavor of these cherry cookies, which are sure to become a hit with both family and friends. Enjoy!