Name: Almond Cherry Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 24 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup slivered almonds, ground; 1 cup butter, softened; ¾ cup powdered sugar, divided; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon salt; 8 ounces maraschino cherries, halved (reserve juice from jar); 2-3 tablespoons water (if needed); 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 2-3 tablespoons milk; Red decorating sugar

Print Recipe· 4.4 from 7 reviews

If you’re anything like me and adore the perfect blend of nutty richness with a burst of sweet cherry, then this Almond Cherry Cookies Recipe is going to become your new favorite treat. These cookies are tender, buttery, and packed with ground almonds that lend a delicate crunch, while the maraschino cherries add just the right pop of color and sweetness. Topped with a glaze that perfectly balances almond extract and cherry juice, each bite is a delightful melody of flavors that’ll have you craving more. Trust me, once you try this Almond Cherry Cookies Recipe, you’ll want to bake a batch every week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the top left, there are two sticks of butter in silver wrappers. Next to them is a small clear glass bowl filled with bright red maraschino cherry juice. Below that is a small white bowl with coarse red decorating sugar. Near the center, a small white square bowl holds sifted all-purpose flour with a soft, powdery texture. Beside it, a round white bowl is filled with slivered almonds. To the right, a small clear measuring cup contains milk, and above it are two metal measuring spoons holding almond extract and vanilla extract, both dark in color. Another metal measuring spoon with salt sits near the bottom center. On the right side, a large white bowl is heaped with fluffy powdered sugar, and in front of it is a smaller white bowl filled with shiny, bright red maraschino cherries. The overall scene is well-lit and clear, showing the details of each ingredient. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is a crucial step, and this recipe shines because it uses simple yet thoughtful components that each add something unique to the mix. From the ground almonds creating a beautiful texture to the maraschino cherries injecting sweetness and color, every ingredient plays a starring role in these Almond Cherry Cookies.

¾ cup slivered almonds (ground): Provides a nutty texture and rich flavor that sets these cookies apart.
1 cup butter (softened): Adds creaminess and moisture, making the cookies tender and luscious.
¾ cup powdered sugar (divided): Sweetens the dough gently and the glaze beautifully.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor depth with a warm, aromatic note.
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The structure base that holds everything together perfectly.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies the flavors.
8 ounces maraschino cherries (halved, reserve juice): The star fruity addition with its vibrant red color and juicy sweetness.
Red decorating sugar: Adds sparkle and a delicate crunch on top for visual appeal and texture.
2-3 Tablespoons water (optional): Helps adjust dough consistency if it feels too dry to work with.
2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a smooth, sweet topping that glazes the cookies beautifully.
1 Tablespoon maraschino cherry juice: Infuses the glaze with cherry flavor and a lovely pink tint.
1 teaspoon almond extract: Enhances the almond notes in the glaze for extra fragrance.
2-3 Tablespoons milk: Used to thin the glaze to just the right dipping consistency.

How to Make Almond Cherry Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures a hot and ready environment so your cookies bake evenly. While waiting, soften the butter if you haven’t already—the softer, the better for incorporating into the dough.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Vanilla

In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, half of the powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix them together until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. This step is key because it determines the tender base of the cookie dough and ensures each bite melts softly in your mouth.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground slivered almonds. Mixing these dry ingredients helps distribute the almonds evenly, giving your cookies that gorgeous, nutty texture we’re aiming for.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Mixtures Together

Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the creamed butter mixture. This should form a dough that holds together but is still soft enough to shape easily. If the dough feels crumbly or too dry, add 1 tablespoon of water at a time, up to 3 tablespoons, for an easier rolling experience.

Step 5: Shape Cookies with Cherries

Take about 1 tablespoon of dough and create a little pit in the center. Place a halved maraschino cherry right in the pit, then fold the dough around it, shaping a ball. Press the cookie dough slightly to flatten it on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. This method ensures every cookie is filled with that perfect cherry surprise.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-9 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to just begin turning a delicate golden brown. This short baking time keeps them soft while allowing a bit of crispness on the edges—the best of both worlds!

Step 7: Glaze and Decorate

While the cookies cool on a wire rack, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, reserved cherry juice, and almond extract in a small bowl. Add milk until the glaze is the perfect dipping consistency. Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, invert them back onto the rack, and immediately sprinkle red decorating sugar. This adds sparkle and a delightful crunch in every bite.

How to Serve Almond Cherry Cookies Recipe

The image shows a metal baking tray lined with parchment paper holding 15 small, round, pale dough balls evenly spaced in three loose rows. The dough balls have a slightly cracked, smooth texture. To the right side of the tray, there is a white bowl filled with bright red cherries that look glossy and wet. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a pink and white checkered cloth partially visible at the left bottom corner, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, try sprinkling a few chopped roasted almonds or a light dusting of cinnamon on top after glazing. These small additions complement the almond and cherry flavors perfectly without overpowering the cookie’s delicate balance.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea, especially green or Earl Grey, or even a rich coffee. If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side echoes the sweetness and creaminess, turning your snacking into a decadent mini-dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange a batch of these cookies on a festive platter surrounded by fresh cherries or almond slices to highlight your main ingredients visually. They also make charming handmade gifts when wrapped in parchment paper and tied with a ribbon—perfect for holidays or just because!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Almond Cherry Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Stored properly, they stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days, making them great for enjoying throughout the week or sharing with friends.

Freezing

If you want to save these cookies for longer, freeze them after glazing and completely drying. Layer cookies with parchment between each one in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months, and you can enjoy them anytime just by thawing at room temperature.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-baked aroma and soften the cookies after refrigeration or freezing, pop them in a warm oven (about 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5 minutes. This brings back the perfect tender texture and enhances the glaze’s sweetness.

FAQs

Can I substitute the almonds with another nut?

Absolutely! While almonds add a distinctive flavor and texture, you can try ground pecans or walnuts. Just note that the flavor profile will slightly shift, but it will still be delicious.

Do I have to use maraschino cherries or can fresh cherries work?

Maraschino cherries are recommended since their sweetness and juiciness perfectly complement the cookie dough and glaze. Fresh cherries can be used but may require adjusting sweetness and moisture.

Is the almond extract essential in the glaze?

The almond extract intensifies the nutty aroma and ties the glaze beautifully to the cookie’s overall flavor. If you’re allergic or don’t have it, vanilla extract makes a decent alternative.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture.

How long does it take to bake these cookies?

The baking time is short—about 8 to 9 minutes—which ensures they remain soft yet slightly golden on the edges, exactly how an Almond Cherry Cookies Recipe should be.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the combination of almonds and cherries in cookie form, and this Almond Cherry Cookies Recipe captures that magic effortlessly. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or simply because you want to treat yourself, these cookies offer a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and visual charm. Grab your ingredients and give this recipe a whirl—you’ll be so glad you did!