Crisp on the outside, tender inside — these buttery Danish-style cookies get a Traverse Bay Farms twist with Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate and a candied cherry center. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or everyday indulgence.
Published: March 2011 | Updated September 2025
Chef’s Note
This recipe came to life in our Traverse Bay Farms kitchen during a winter baking a year ago. The smell of real butter and tart cherry filled the room, and the first bite reminded us of holiday cookie trays from childhood.
A splash of Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate adds just enough tang to cut the sweetness, while the cherry on top gives that signature Traverse Bay Farms sparkle. They quickly became a staple in our holiday tins — buttery, nostalgic, and unmistakably Michigan.
Prep & Yield
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Bake Time: 12–15 minutes
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Yield: 3½ dozen cookies
Ingredients
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¾ cup butter, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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⅓ tbsp Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate
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1 tsp lemon juice
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2½ cups all-purpose flour
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21 red or green glacé (candied) cherries, cut in half
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F.
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In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar on medium speed 3–4 minutes until creamy.
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Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
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Stir in Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate, lemon juice, and vanilla.
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Gradually add flour; mix until smooth.
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Using a pastry bag fitted with a star tip, pipe 1½-inch circles onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
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Press a cherry half into the center of each cookie.
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Bake 12–15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
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Cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Chef’s Tips & Variations
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Add sparkle: Sprinkle with coarse sugar before baking.
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Flavor twist: Swap lemon juice for almond extract for a richer flavor.
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Make ahead: Freeze unbaked cookies; bake directly from frozen with 1–2 extra minutes.
Nutritional Highlight
Each cookie delivers the classic buttery crumble of Danish cookies with a burst of cherry brightness — a balance of nostalgia and Traverse Bay Farms freshness.
Behind the Recipe
Inspired by European baking traditions and Northern Michigan harvests, this recipe celebrates the art of handcrafted simplicity. Our Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate elevates a classic cookie with real fruit flavor — a modern Michigan take on a timeless favorite.
People Also Ask
Can I use fresh cherries instead of glacé cherries?
Yes, but pat them dry first to prevent spreading during baking.
What makes these cookies “Danish”?
Their rich butter base, piped shape, and delicate crumb.
Can I make them ahead for the holidays?
Yes! Store in airtight tins or freeze for up to 3 months.
What’s the secret to the perfect texture?
Room-temperature butter and careful mixing — don’t overbeat once flour is added.
