There’s something truly special that happens when the intoxicating scent of vanilla and almond fills the air, and it all starts with these delightful Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies. Imagine welcoming friends or family into your home and transforming the atmosphere with the sweet allure of freshly baked cookies. Just like a warm hug, these treats bridge the gap between tradition and flavor, making them perfect for any occasion.
I stumbled upon this gem while searching for a cookie recipe that combined nostalgia with a twist. The addition of maraschino cherries and crunchy almonds elevates a classic sugar cookie into a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s perfect for everything from cozy gatherings to festive celebrations. And the best part? They come together in under 40 minutes, making it easy to swap out fast food for something homemade and heartwarming. So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into this deliciously sweet adventure!
Why You'll Love This Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies
- These Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are incredibly easy to make, allowing even novice bakers to impress with homemade treats.
- The delightful combination of cherries and almonds brings a burst of flavor that will leave everyone craving more.
- Their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive celebration.
- Plus, these cookies not only taste exceptional but also look beautiful, adding a vibrant touch to your dessert table.
Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake a flavorful batch!
For the Cookie Base
- Unsalted butter – this creates a rich, creamy base for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the dough while giving it delightful structure.
- Powdered sugar – adds a smooth finish and lightness to the cookies.
- Large eggs – they help bind the ingredients and provide moisture.
- Almond extract – infuses these cookies with a warm, nutty aroma.
- Vanilla extract – complements the almond flavor and enhances overall depth.
For the Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose flour – forms the foundational structure of the cookies.
- Baking soda – provides lift for that perfect soft, chewy texture.
- Cream of tartar – keeps the cookies tender and prevents them from spreading too much.
For the Mix-Ins
- Chopped maraschino cherries – they add juicy sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.
- Sliced almonds – provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
How to Make Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This initial step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that delightful golden hue.
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Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This creates that luscious base for your cookies.
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Add the eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is combined smoothly, creating a rich batter full of flavor.
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Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar in a separate bowl. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour.
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Sift the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and mix gently until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to tougher cookies, so be careful here!
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Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and sliced almonds. This adds vibrant color and texture, making every bite a treat!
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Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them; the moment the aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll know they’re close!
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Cool the cookies on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This step allows them to set perfectly before you dig in!
Optional: Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving for a touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will make your cookies even more enticing and uniquely yours!
- Nut-Free: Substitute sliced almonds with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts.
- Dried Fruits: Swap maraschino cherries with dried cranberries or apricots for a chewy and fruity experience. The tartness of cranberries adds a wonderful contrast!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies friendly for everyone. Your loved ones won’t miss the gluten at all!
- Cocoa Twist: Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich chocolatey flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries. Chocolate and cherry is a classic combo!
- Spice it Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced twist that gives these cookies a cozy vibe, perfect for fall gatherings.
- Coconut Flakes: Mix in 1/2 cup of sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flair that adds texture and whimsical flavor. It’s like a vacation in cookie form!
- Lemon Zest: Brighten up the flavors by adding zest from one lemon; this will enhance the cherry and almond notes with a refreshing zing!
- Extra Almonds: Can’t get enough almond flavor? Sprinkle extra sliced almonds on top before baking for an added nutty crunch and visual appeal.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and chewy for your snacking pleasure!
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Fridge: For a longer lifespan, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week. Just allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before enjoying.
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Freezer: You can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Reheating: To revive the freshly-baked taste, reheat cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will bring back their delightful warmth and softness!
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh, homemade treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients as directed, then refrigerate the dough in an airtight container. For longer storage, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop the chilled or thawed dough onto baking sheets and follow the same baking instructions for deliciously fresh cookies. To maintain their fluffy texture, avoid over-mixing the dough and ensure they’re cooled properly before enjoying. With these tips, you’ll have these delightful treats ready for any gathering or sweet craving!
What to Serve with Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies?
There’s something uplifting about creating a complete meal around the sweetness of freshly baked cookies, making any gathering feel extra special.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch that contrasts beautifully with the cookies’ sweetness. It’s the perfect palate cleanser!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing these cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream transforms them into an indulgent dessert that feels festive and fun, delighting all ages.
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Mint Tea: The subtle herbs of mint tea bring a soothing warmth that complements the almond and cherry notes beautifully. It’s a cozy drink that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
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Coffee: A rich cup of coffee offers a delightful contrast to the cookies’ sugary flavor, enhancing the nutty undertones while providing that much-loved caffeine kick.
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Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Drizzle a warm, silky chocolate sauce over your cookies for an extra touch of decadence. It introduces a luxurious layer of flavor that’s sure to impress.
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Coconut Macaroons: For a double cookie treat, serve these chewy delights alongside your Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies. The coconut’s tropical notes provide a nice harmony to the cookie spread.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: Add a dollop of tangy cream cheese frosting on these cookies for a richer experience. The creaminess pairs perfectly with the almond and cherry, making each bite even more delightful.
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Chilled Lemonade: A glass of zesty lemonade offers a refreshing finish, cutting through the richness and adding a tangy twist to the dessert table.
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Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some nutty granola on top of yogurt for a creamy dessert that pairs perfectly with the cherry and almond flavors for a wholesome experience.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies, ensure your butter is fully softened for easier creaming, which will contribute to a fluffy texture.
- Avoid over-mixing the dough to prevent tough cookies; stop mixing as soon as the dry ingredients are incorporated.
- Incorporating the cherries and almonds gently will ensure even distribution without breaking them up too much.
- Remember to check your cookies at the 10-minute mark, as oven temperatures can vary and you want them just golden on the edges for the best texture.
Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting maraschino cherries?
When selecting maraschino cherries, look for ones that are bright in color and plump without dark spots. Avoid cherries that appear overly mushy or have sticky residue, as these can affect the texture and flavor of your cookies.
How should I store my Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies?
You can store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week, ensuring they are in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Layer parchment paper between each cookie to prevent them from sticking together. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to get that freshly baked taste back.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is too sticky to handle, don’t worry! Simply add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be careful not to add too much at once, as this can make the cookies dense. I often find that chilling the dough for about 30 minutes in the fridge helps if it’s still too sticky after adjusting the flour.
Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Since this recipe includes almond extract and sliced almonds, they aren’t suitable for individuals with nut allergies. To make these cookies nut-free, you can omit the almonds altogether and replace the almond extract with additional vanilla extract for a delightful flavor without the risks.
How long will these cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly at room temperature, Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies can stay fresh for about 3 days. If stored in the refrigerator, they can last for up to a week. For freezing, remember to consume them within 3 months for the best texture and flavor. Enjoy making these delicious treats with confidence!
Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix until combined.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar in a separate bowl.
- Sift the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and mix gently until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and sliced almonds.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
