Name: Almond Cherry Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 29 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup slivered almonds (ground); 1 cup butter (softened); 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 8 ounces jar maraschino cherries (halved, reserve 1 teaspoon juice); Red decorating sugar; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 2–3 tablespoons milk

Ingredients

3/4 cup slivered almonds (ground)

1 cup butter (softened)

3/4 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

8 ounces jar maraschino cherries (halved, reserve 1 teaspoon juice)

Red decorating sugar

2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)

1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice (for frosting)

1 teaspoon almond extract (for frosting)

2–3 tablespoons milk (for frosting)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground slivered almonds.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until the dough is fully incorporated.

Step 5: Take a tablespoon of dough, form a small pit in the center, place half a maraschino cherry inside, then fold the dough around it to form a ball.

Step 6: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten each slightly.

Step 7: Bake for 8–9 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden brown.

Step 8: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

Step 9: To make the frosting, whisk together powdered sugar, reserved maraschino cherry juice, and almond extract in a small bowl. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches a dipping consistency.

Step 10: Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the frosting, then return them to the wire rack.

Step 11: Sprinkle with red decorating sugar and allow the frosting to set before serving.

Tips & Variations

For an extra nutty flavor, toast the slivered almonds lightly before grinding.

Substitute maraschino cherries with dried cherries or glacé cherries for a different texture.

Use almond flour instead of ground slivered almonds for a finer crumb.

Adjust frosting thickness by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you prefer, refrigerate to keep them fresh longer, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving. Leftover frosting can be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to one week; stir well before using again.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking. This makes the dough easier to handle and enhances the flavors.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries can be used but keep in mind they have higher moisture content and may affect the texture and sweetness of the cookies. Pit and halve them before use, and consider reducing the sugar slightly.