The scent of freshly baked cookies wafted through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. These Festive Almond Cherry Cookies are my go-to for brightening up any gathering or cozy afternoon. With their buttery almond flavor and cheery maraschino cherry pops, they sprinkle just the right amount of sweetness into our lives. What makes these cookies truly delightful is how quick they are to prepare—perfect for busy bakers craving something homemade! Plus, they’ll charm your family and friends, making them feel special even before the first bite. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the delicious aroma of these merry treats? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Fall for These Cookies
Irresistible flavor combo: Buttery almond and sweet cherries create a symphony of taste that dances on your palate.
Quick & Easy to make: Perfect for those last-minute baking needs or holiday gatherings without sacrificing quality.
Crispy Meets Chewy: The texture contrasts delightfully with a crispy outer shell and a soft, chewy center.
Festive Appeal: Brighten up your cookie platter or afternoon tea with their vibrant colors and joyful frosting.
Versatile for any occasion: Serve these delightful Almond Cherry Cookies at holidays, parties, or as a sweet treat to brighten your day! Pair them with a cup of warm coffee or even alongside other cookies like Pumpkin White Cookies for a delicious dessert spread.
Almond Cherry Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Slivered Almonds (3/4 cup) – Provides a nutty flavor and crunchy texture; substitute with finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a different taste.
- Butter (1 cup, softened) – Adds richness and moisture to the cookies; using unsalted butter helps control salt levels.
- Powdered Sugar (3/4 cup) – Sweetens while contributing to the cookie’s tender texture; can be replaced with granulated sugar for a different sweetness profile.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor; almond extract can be a delicious substitute.
- All-purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups) – Provides structure to the cookies; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; feel free to use sea salt as a substitute.
- Maraschino Cherries (8 ounces, halved) – Adds sweetness and festive color; consider using fresh cherries in season for a more natural flavor.
For the Frosting
- Powdered Sugar (1 cup) – Creates a sweet and creamy texture for decorating.
- Maraschino Cherry Juice (2 tablespoons) – Provides flavor and additional sweetness to the frosting; can be substituted with milk for a simpler frosting.
- Almond Extract (1/2 teaspoon) – Deepens the flavor profile of the frosting; optional, but lovely to include.
- Milk (1-2 tablespoons) – Adjusts the consistency of the frosting for easy dipping; add as needed for the perfect texture.
For Decorating
- Red Decorating Sugar – For aesthetic appeal when decorating the cookies; optional but highly recommended for a festive touch.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Almond Cherry Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures that your Almond Cherry Cookies will bake evenly and won’t stick to the pan. While the oven warms, gather your ingredients to streamline the process.
Step 2: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter, 3/4 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy. In a separate bowl, combine 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 3/4 cup of slivered almonds. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a smooth dough forms.
Step 3: Form Cookies
Scoop dollops of the cookie dough and create small pits in the center of each. Place half of a maraschino cherry inside each pit, and carefully fold the dough around the cherry to enclose it. Shape the dough into a ball and slightly flatten it. This creates a delightful surprise inside your Almond Cherry Cookies!
Step 4: Bake
Arrange the formed cookies on your prepared baking sheet with some space in between. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 9 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain soft, so watch them closely! Once done, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make Frosting
In a clean bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Gradually add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a smooth, dipping consistency for your frosting. The mixture should be creamy and easy to coat without being too runny.
Step 6: Decorate Cookies
Once your cookies have cooled completely, dip the tops into the frosting, ensuring a delightful coating. Immediately sprinkle red decorating sugar over the frosted tops for a festive touch. Allow the frosting to set before serving your Almond Cherry Cookies, so they are not only tasty but beautifully appealing too!
Expert Tips for Almond Cherry Cookies
• Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature to make blending easier, creating a smooth and consistent dough.
• Watch the Bake Time: Don’t overbake! Cookies should be taken out when the edges are just golden for that perfect chewy center.
• Chill for Chewiness: For extra chewy Almond Cherry Cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
• Proper Measuring: Use the spoon and level method to measure flour accurately, preventing dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dryness.
• Freshness Matters: Opt for fresh maraschino cherries if available; they provide a burst of natural sweetness that elevates your cookie experience!
• Sprinkling Sugar: Sprinkle the red decorating sugar right after frosting the cookies—this helps it stick better for a vibrant festive finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Almond Cherry Cookies are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time during the festive rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it, which helps to deepen the flavors and maintain quality. Additionally, if you shape the cookies before baking, they can be frozen for up to 3 months; just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, simply add an extra minute or two to the baking time without thawing. This makes serving delicious Almond Cherry Cookies easy and convenient, bringing joy without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Almond Cherry Cookies
Refrigerator Storage: Keep your Almond Cherry Cookies in an airtight container, layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking, for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
Freezer Storage: Freeze the baked cookies in a single layer until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm cookie experience, briefly microwave thawed cookies for 10-15 seconds. This will cozy them up while keeping their delightful texture intact.
What to Serve with Almond Cherry Cookies
Imagine a cozy gathering where everyone is indulging in sweet treats, and these delightful cookies take center stage.
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Creamy Hot Cocoa: A rich cup of hot cocoa is the perfect complement, balancing the nutty and sweet flavors of the cookies with its creamy warmth.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai will enhance the buttery almond flavor while offering a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cherries.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream on the side brings a wonderful creaminess that perfectly contrasts with the chewy texture of the cookies. If served warm, it creates a delightful melty experience.
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Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad of seasonal berries adds a fresh, fruity burst to your dessert spread, enhancing the overall flavor without overwhelming the palate.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, making for an exquisite flavor combination.
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Sparkling Wine: Share a bottle of bubbly for a festive celebration; the acidity cuts through the richness and elevates the cookie experience to something truly special.
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Festive Cookie Tray: Mix these Almond Cherry Cookies with other holiday favorites to create an inviting cookie platter that showcases your baking talents. It becomes a centerpiece brimming with joy!
Whether it’s a warm drink or a delightful spread, these pairings will elevate your Almond Cherry Cookies to new heights of deliciousness!
Variations & Substitutions for Almond Cherry Cookies
Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste buds!
- Dried Fruit: Swap maraschino cherries for dried cranberries or apricots for a chewy sweetness that complements the almond flavor.
- Nutty Alternatives: Substitute slivered almonds with finely chopped walnuts or pecans for an entirely new nutty flavor and texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
- Chocolate-Covered: For a decadent twist, fold in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top of the frosted cookies.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor that enhances the festive vibe.
- Fruity Frosting: Infuse the frosting with citrus zest—like lemon or orange—for a refreshing brightness that pairs beautifully with the almond and cherry flavors.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed almonds or granola on top of the frosting for an added crunch and visual appeal.
- Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk and flaxseed egg for a vegan-friendly treat.
The possibilities are endless! If you enjoy trying out different flavors, be sure to also check out my recipes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies and Banana Bread Cookies for more festive inspirations.
Almond Cherry Cookies Recipe FAQs
Can I use different types of cherries?
Absolutely! While maraschino cherries add a festive touch, you can use fresh cherries when in season for a more natural flavor. Just be sure to pit and halve them first!
How should I store my Almond Cherry Cookies?
Keep your Almond Cherry Cookies in an airtight container layered with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze your cookies! Place the baked cookies in a single layer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They will maintain their flavor for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough ends up too sticky, don’t panic! Simply sprinkle a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, while mixing until the dough is manageable but still soft. Remember, overworking the dough can lead to denser cookies, so be gentle.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create delicious gluten-free Almond Cherry Cookies. Just ensure the blend you choose has a good balance of flours for optimal texture.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, these cookies should not be shared with pets, especially since they contain ingredients like butter and sugar that aren’t suitable for their diets. Always best to keep your sweet treats to yourself!
Irresistible Almond Cherry Cookies for Festive Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, and slivered almonds. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing until smooth.
- Scoop dollops of dough, create small pits, and place half a maraschino cherry in each. Enclose the cherry and flatten slightly.
- Bake cookies for 8 to 9 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, cherry juice, and almond extract, adding milk until desired consistency is reached.
- Dip cookie tops in frosting and sprinkle with red decorating sugar. Allow frosting to set.
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