Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

Soft, puffy, melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookies, with touches of vanilla, cherry, and almond, and a thick cherry-almond icing! These Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are guaranteed to be a smash hit for the holidays. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family nights, these cookies are not only delightful but also simple to make. With their unique flavor profile and beautiful presentation, they are sure to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor – The combination of almond and cherry creates a delightful twist that sets these cookies apart.
• Easy to Make – With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these treats without any fuss.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday party or a simple dessert at home, these cookies fit right in.
• Versatile Icing Options – You can customize the icing thickness and sweetness to suit your taste preferences.
• Makes a Large Batch – Ideal for sharing; this recipe yields 48 cookies!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gathering the right tools is key to ensuring smooth preparation. Having everything organized will help you create these delicious cookies with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Electric mixer – Speeds up the mixing process, ensuring ingredients blend smoothly for perfect cookie dough.

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Ingredients

For these delightful Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 2 – 12 oz. jars maraschino cherries (drained (reserve juice), minced, squeezed VERY dry)
• 1 cup butter (softened)
• 1 cup vegetable or canola oil
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp. almond extract
• 2 tsp. cherry extract
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 1 tsp. cream of tartar

For the Icing:

• 4 tbsp. butter (melted)
• 1/3 cup + 1-2 tbsp. maraschino cherry juice
• 1 tsp. almond extract
• 1 tsp. cherry extract
• 4 – 5 cups powdered sugar

For Garnish:

• 1/2 cup slivered almonds

How to Make Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 3: Mix the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the almond extract and cherry extract until combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

Using a spoon or cookie scoop:
1. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 5: Make the Icing

While cookies cool:
1. In a medium bowl, mix melted butter with reserved maraschino cherry juice.
2. Add almond extract and cherry extract before gradually adding powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Decorate Your Cookies

Once cooled:
1. Drizzle or spread icing over each cookie.
2. Top with slivered almonds for added texture and flavor.

Let your Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies set before serving! Enjoy this delightful treat with friends and family during any special occasion or just because!

How to Serve Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. These cookies are perfect for gatherings, dessert tables, or simply as a sweet snack at home. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that balances sweetness and creaminess.

On a Cookie Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter alongside other baked goods for a stunning dessert display at parties or family gatherings.

As Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies to sandwich your favorite ice cream flavor for a deliciously indulgent treat.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh cherries or strawberries to enhance the fruity flavors of the cookies and add a refreshing touch.

Gift-Wrapped for Loved Ones

• Package these cookies in a cute box or tin, tied with ribbon, making them a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

How to Perfect Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

To ensure your Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough – Letting the dough rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps to firm it up, resulting in thicker, chewy cookies.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always use fresh extracts and ingredients for the best flavor. This will enhance the cherry and almond notes in your cookies.

• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined when adding flour. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.

• Adjust Baking Time – Bake until the edges are lightly golden but the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

• Store Properly – Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies can complement several side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here’s a list of great pairings:

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast.
3. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses such as brie or cream cheese to provide a savory balance.
4. Tea Selection – Offer an assortment of herbal or fruity teas that pair nicely with the cookie’s cherry flavor.
5. Nut Mix – A selection of nuts adds crunch and depth while contrasting with the cookie’s soft texture.
6. Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of cookie into chocolate fondue for an extra layer of indulgence.
7. Ice Cream Sundae Bar – Set up toppings like sprinkles, cherries, and chocolate syrup so guests can create their own sundaes using cookie pieces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skipping ingredient prep: Not properly draining and drying the maraschino cherries can lead to soggy cookies. Ensure you mince and squeeze the cherries dry to maintain the right texture.

• Boldly ignoring temperature: Using cold butter instead of softened butter will result in a denser cookie. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for optimal mixing.

• Boldly mismeasuring flour: Adding too much flour can create dry cookies. Use a spoon to fluff the flour before scooping it into your measuring cup for accuracy.

• Boldly rushing the chilling time: Skipping the chilling time for the dough can result in cookies that spread too much in the oven. Allow your dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.

• Boldly neglecting extract balance: Overdoing either almond or cherry extract can overpower the flavors. Stick to the recommended measurements for balanced taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
• Transfer them to freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

• Boldly using an oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-10 minutes.
• Boldly using a microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Boldly using stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies.

How do I make Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking them. Remove from the oven as soon as they turn golden around the edges while remaining soft in the center.

Can I substitute ingredients in Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies?

Yes! You can use plant-based butter or oil alternatives if desired. Just ensure you maintain the correct ratios for best results.

How long do Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies last about one week in the fridge and up to three months if frozen.

What’s unique about Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies?

These cookies combine rich cherry and almond flavors with a soft texture, making them perfect for holidays or any occasion where you want something sweet and delightful.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding slivered almonds, walnuts, or even white chocolate chips based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients or toppings according to your taste. Whether you’re baking for a holiday event or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress everyone who tries them!