Cherry Almond Cookies are a delightful treat that’s easy to make. With a lovely almond flavor and a sweet cherry surprise in the center, they’re perfect for any occasion. These cookies turn out tender and golden, making them hard to resist.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These cookies are simple to prepare and use everyday ingredients that you likely already have at home. They are not only delicious but also incredibly fun to make with kids. Plus, the combination of almond and cherry provides a lovely flavor that’s sure to impress family and friends.

How to Make Cherry Almond Cookies

Making these cookies is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You’ll mix the ingredients, shape the dough, and add maraschino cherries for that sweet burst. A simple glaze ties everything together, creating a treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons.

What You Need

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup almond flour
1 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
Cherry frosting (for glazing)
Maraschino cherries (for filling)

Step-by-Step

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Mix in the almond extract and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
Make an indentation in the center of each dough ball and place a maraschino cherry in the center.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden.
Allow the cookies to cool before glazing with cherry frosting.
Enjoy your holiday cookies!

How to Serve Cherry Almond Cookies

These cookies are perfect on their own or served alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. They can also be a fantastic addition to a dessert table during festive occasions. For an extra treat, drizzle more cherry frosting on top or serve them with vanilla ice cream.

How to Store Cherry Almond Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving.

Recipe Tips

Make sure the butter is softened for easy creaming.
Don’t skip the chilling step if you want firmer cookies.
Use fresh maraschino cherries for a vibrant flavor.
Adjust the amount of almond extract if you prefer a milder taste.
Ensure your oven temperature is accurate for even baking.

Variations & Swaps

Try using pistachios instead of almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Substitute coconut flour for a tropical twist.
For a chocolatey version, add mini chocolate chips to the dough.
You can use raspberry or strawberry jam in place of cherries for variety.
Make them gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies in advance?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just roll and bake when you’re ready to enjoy them!

Can these cookies be frozen?
Absolutely! Once cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

What’s the best way to reheat these cookies?
To reheat, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warm.

Are there any good ingredient substitutions?
Yes! You can substitute the almond flour with any other nut flour, or use gluten-free alternatives. If someone is allergic to nuts, oat flour can also work well.

What are common mistakes to avoid?
Avoid overmixing the dough after adding the flour, as this can lead to tough cookies. Also, be sure to measure your flour correctly, as too much can affect the texture.