Name: Almond Cherry Cookies: Sweet, Chewy Holiday Delights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 29 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Slivered almonds (Can substitute with finely chopped hazelnuts or walnuts.); 1/2 cup Butter (softened) (Use margarine for a dairy-free option.); 2 cups Powdered sugar (Granulated sugar can be used but will alter the texture slightly.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Almond extract can be used for a stronger nutty flavor.); 2 1/4 cups All-purpose flour (Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier alternative.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.); 1 cup Maraschino cherries (Can substitute with fresh cherries or other fruits.); 1/4 cup Red decorating sugar (Sparkling sugar can be used instead.)

Is there anything quite as comforting as the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home? For me, the answer is a resounding “no!” As the holidays approach, I find myself reaching for my favorite recipes, and these Almond Cherry Cookies always make the cut. With their soft texture and delightful bursts of maraschino cherries intertwined with a nutty, buttery flavor, these festive treats are sure to captivate your loved ones. Not only are they easy to prepare—making them perfect for unexpected gatherings—but they also elevate any cookie platter to a whole new level. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the joyous world of holiday baking—will your kitchen soon be filled with the sweet scent of these Almond Cherry Cookies?

Why are Almond Cherry Cookies irresistible?

Irresistible, Festive Flavor: Each bite of these cookies offers a delightful balance of nutty almonds and sweet maraschino cherries that embodies the spirit of the holiday season.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can whip up these treats in no time, making them ideal for last-minute holiday gatherings.

Visual Appeal: The striking contrast of red cherry against the golden cookie base makes these cookies a stunning addition to any dessert table—perfect for impressing your guests!

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment! Try substituting other nuts or fruit fillings, giving you endless possibilities to tailor these cookies to your taste or dietary needs.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether served at parties, gift-wrapped for neighbors, or enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee, these cookies are sure to satisfy cravings and bring cheer to everyone who tries them.

If you love cookies, don’t forget to check out my Cinnamon Roll Cookies for another delightful treat!

Almond Cherry Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Slivered almonds – Provides nutty flavor and texture; can substitute with finely chopped hazelnuts or walnuts for variety.
Butter (softened) – Creates a rich, tender base for the cookies; use margarine for a dairy-free option.
Powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a soft cookie texture; granulated sugar can be used but will alter the texture slightly.
Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor and complements almond; almond extract can be used for a stronger nutty flavor.
All-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier alternative.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

For the Filling

Maraschino cherries – Provides sweetness and festive color; substitute with fresh cherries or other fruits like cranberries for a different taste.

For the Decoration

Red decorating sugar – Used for decoration, adding a festive touch; sparkling sugar can be used instead for a different texture.

Dive into the festive spirit with these Almond Cherry Cookies, and experience a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Almond Cherry Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to ensure your Almond Cherry Cookies don’t stick. This creates an ideal surface for baking and makes the cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream these ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and fluffy—this takes about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it lightens in color and texture.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and slivered almonds. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter-sugar blend, mixing on low speed. Combine until just incorporated—be careful not to overmix. The dough should feel soft and slightly sticky, ready for the cherries!

Step 4: Fill with Maraschino Cherries
Take about a tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place half a maraschino cherry in the center and fold the dough around it to form a ball. Repeat this process, rolling all the dough into balls, ensuring the cherries are fully enclosed for that delightful surprise in your Almond Cherry Cookies.

Step 5: Shape and Prepare for Baking
Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball with your fingers to create a disk shape—this will help them bake evenly. The cookies should look plump and ready for a warm oven!

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the Almond Cherry Cookies for 8–9 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden color. The centers should still look slightly soft; they will firm up as they cool. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overbaking!

Step 7: Cool on a Wire Rack
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture and readying them for frosting.

Step 8: Make the Cherry Frosting
While your cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting by whisking together powdered sugar, cherry juice, and almond extract in a small bowl. Add milk gradually until you achieve the right consistency—smooth and drizzle-able. This delightful pink frosting will beautifully complement your Almond Cherry Cookies.

Step 9: Frost and Decorate
Once the cookies are completely cool, dip the tops into the cherry frosting, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, sprinkle with red decorating sugar for that festive touch. Place the frosted cookies on a plate to let the icing set, providing a sweet and colorful finish to your delicious treats!

Expert Tips for Almond Cherry Cookies

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your butter is properly softened; if it’s too hard, the dough won’t mix well, resulting in dense cookies.
Mind the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies; they should be lightly golden at the edges and soft in the center to maintain their chewy texture.
Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting—they will achieve the ideal chewy consistency, preventing the frosting from sliding off.
Adjust for Altitude: Baking at high altitudes may require slight adjustments, such as increasing flour or reducing sugar, to achieve the best results with your Almond Cherry Cookies.
Store Smart: Keep your cookies in an airtight container to retain their freshness; they’ll stay delicious for up to a week refrigerating, or freeze for up to three months for later enjoyment.

What to Serve with Almond Cherry Cookies

Indulge in a delightful assortment that makes your holiday baking experience truly memorable and satisfying.

Rich Hot Cocoa: The creamy richness of hot cocoa balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a warm, comforting duo for cozy evenings.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, tangy fruit salad adds a refreshing touch, offering a seasonal contrast that perfectly complements the cookies’ indulgent flavors.
Creamy Cheesecake: A slice of creamy cheesecake enhances the festivity, with its velvety texture creating a decadent end to your dessert spread.
Spiced Eggnog: Embrace the season with spiced eggnog; its warmth and festive spices harmonize beautifully with the almond and cherry flavors.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a delightful creaminess, making the experience of enjoying these cookies even more luxurious.
Mulled Wine: The aromatic spices in mulled wine echo the festive spirit, offering a cozy drink that pairs beautifully with cookies as a holiday treat.
Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can create an intriguing contrast; rich, nutty cheeses beautifully balance the sweet and fruity notes of the cookies.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over these cookies brings an extra layer of indulgence that’s simply heavenly.

How to Store and Freeze Almond Cherry Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best softness and flavor.

Fridge: For extended freshness, keep your Almond Cherry Cookies in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap cookies tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw cookies at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain their delightful chewy texture.

Almond Cherry Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Almond Cherry Cookies truly your own!

Nut-Free: Omit the almonds and swap them for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version that still offers crunch.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine to accommodate those avoiding dairy.
Flour Alternatives: Try almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free treat that enhances the nutty flavor.
Fruit Variations: Replace maraschino cherries with fresh cherries, dried cranberries, or even raspberry preserves to surprise the taste buds.
Holiday Spices: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a cozy, spiced flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate the cookies with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top, adding richness and a touch of elegance.
Coconut Flakes: Include unsweetened shredded coconut in the dough for added texture and a hint of tropical sweetness.
Lemon Zest: Grate in some lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens the flavors of this festive cookie.

So, if you’re looking for a bit more inspiration, consider trying these variations. You might like them enough to keep them on repeat, just like my Peanut Butter Cookies or the delicious Cherry Cobbler Muffins!

Make Ahead Options

These Almond Cherry Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and shaping the dough balls filled with maraschino cherries. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can frost the cookies up to 3 days ahead, but it’s best to do so right before serving to keep the decorations vibrant and the texture delightful. When ready to bake, simply place the chilled dough on a baking sheet and follow the baking instructions. This way, you can enjoy delicious, festive cookies with minimal effort on a busy day!

Almond Cherry Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe maraschino cherries for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting maraschino cherries, look for those that are vibrant in color, with a glossy appearance and no dark spots. They should feel firm to the touch and not overly soft or mushy. If using fresh cherries, opt for ones that are slightly firm with a rich, sweet aroma.

How should I store Almond Cherry Cookies after baking?
For optimal freshness, store your Almond Cherry Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This helps retain their chewy texture and delightful flavor.

Can I freeze Almond Cherry Cookies, and what’s the best method?
Absolutely, freezing is a great way to extend the life of your cookies! First, allow them to cool completely. Then, individually wrap each cookie in plastic wrap or place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. These cookies can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until they regain their softness.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very good question! If your dough feels overly sticky, it may be due to the butter being too soft or the flour measurement being slightly off. To resolve this, you can gradually add a little more all-purpose flour—about a tablespoon at a time—mixing well after each addition until the dough is manageable. Another tip is to chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes, which can also help firm it up.

Are Almond Cherry Cookies safe for those with nut allergies?
If anyone in your household has nut allergies, it’s best to avoid these Almond Cherry Cookies, as they contain slivered almonds. However, you can make nut-free variations by substituting the almonds with sunflower seeds or using a seed flour, which can maintain a delicious flavor without the allergens while still providing texture.