Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

Soft, puffy, melt-in-your-mouth Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are perfect for any festive occasion. With delightful flavors of vanilla, cherry, and almond, these cookies promise to be a crowd-pleaser at gatherings or as a sweet treat for yourself. Their simplicity in preparation makes them an ideal baking project for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Plus, the delicious cherry-almond icing adds a special touch that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These cookies require simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making them perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of cherry and almond creates a unique flavor profile that stands out from typical sugar cookies.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or just an everyday snack—these cookies fit any occasion.
• Large Batch: With 48 servings per recipe, you’ll have plenty to share (or keep all to yourself!).
• Beautiful Presentation: The colorful icing and slivered almonds make these cookies visually appealing on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your baking process and enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures that your butter and sugars are creamed to perfection, creating a light texture in your cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy, allowing you to bake multiple batches without hassle.

Ingredients

To create 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 the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the almond extract and cherry extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Fold in the minced cherries gently.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared sheets about 2 inches apart.
3. Bake in preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
4. Allow cooling on sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Step 4: Prepare the Icing

In another mixing bowl:
1. Combine melted butter with reserved cherry juice.
2. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until desired consistency is achieved.
3. Stir in almond and cherry extracts.

Step 5: Ice Your Cookies

Once cookies are completely cooled:
1. Drizzle or spread icing over each cookie generously.
2. Sprinkle with slivered almonds for an added crunch.

Now enjoy your delicious Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies! Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed at home with family, they are sure to delight everyone who tries them!

How to Serve Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

Serving Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies can be a delightful experience. These cookies not only taste amazing but also look beautiful, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve these sweet treats.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness of the cookies. Whether it’s cold or warm milk, it’s sure to be a hit.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Present these cookies on a festive platter at holiday parties. Their vibrant colors and delicious flavors will attract everyone’s attention.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons. This makes for a charming and tasty gift for guests to take home.

Alongside Coffee or Tea

• Offer these cookies as a sweet accompaniment to coffee or tea at brunches or afternoon gatherings, adding a touch of elegance to your spread.

For Cookie Decorating Parties

• Set up an activity where guests can decorate their own cookies using cherry-almond icing and slivered almonds. It’s interactive and fun!

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve with a side of fresh fruit like berries or slices of oranges to balance the sweetness and add some freshness to the dessert table.

How to Perfect Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

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

• Use room temperature ingredients – Always start with butter and eggs at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Measure flour accurately – Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dry results.

• Don’t overmix the dough – Mix until just combined to maintain the softness of the cookies. Overmixing can lead to tough textures.

• Chill the dough – For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps them maintain shape while baking.

• Watch baking times closely – Since ovens vary, keep an eye on your cookies in the last few minutes of baking. They should be lightly golden on the edges but soft in the center.

• Store properly – Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for maximum freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

Pairing side dishes with Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides brightness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Creamy Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a deliciously creamy contrast that complements the cookie flavors.

3. Mini Cheesecakes – Bite-sized cheesecakes add richness and creaminess, creating a delightful pairing with cherry almond flavors.

4. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries – The combination of rich chocolate and sweet strawberries enhances the overall dessert experience.

5. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream serves as a refreshing counterpoint, making it a perfect match when served warm.

6. Nutty Granola Bars – Crunchy bars provide texture contrast while staying within similar flavor profiles, making them great companions on dessert platters.

7. Caramel Sauce Drizzle – A drizzle of caramel sauce over sliced apples or bananas adds indulgence while complementing cookie flavors beautifully.

8. Coffee Cake Slices – Soft, moist coffee cake pairs nicely, offering another layer of flavor while keeping things light and enjoyable alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a soft texture.
• Using wet cherries: If your cherries are not drained properly, they can add excess moisture. Make sure to squeeze them dry before mixing into the dough.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly. Use a spoon to fill your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking. Allow at least 30 minutes in the fridge before baking.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies special?

These cookies combine the delightful flavors of cherry and almond, creating a unique taste experience that stands out from traditional sugar cookies.

Can I customize my Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, swap cherry extract for other fruit extracts, or even incorporate chocolate chips for added richness.

How long do these cookies last?

Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months if frozen properly.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store any leftover Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or as an everyday treat. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings, making each batch uniquely yours!