Soft Almond Cherry Cookies That Everyone Will Love

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Almond Cherry Cookies are a delightful indulgence that will brighten any gathering or cozy weekend at home. These cookies combine the rich, nutty flavor of almond extract with the sweetness of maraschino cherries, creating a perfect balance that melts in your mouth. They are soft, buttery, and bursting with flavor, making them an ideal treat for holidays, parties, or just because. Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Almond Cherry Cookies

There are countless reasons to love these Almond Cherry Cookies. First, they’re exceptionally easy to make, ensuring you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. Second, the pairing of almonds and cherries offers a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and nutty. Additionally, these cookies are perfect for holiday gifting, making them a festive option for friends and family. You can also easily adapt the recipe for different dietary preferences, such as creating gluten-free or vegan versions. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while baking is another bonus!

Ingredients for Almond Cherry Cookies

Gather these items:

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
½ teaspoon almond extract
2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (113g) chopped maraschino cherries, well-drained
Optional: 1–2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice (for color and flavor)

How to Make Almond Cherry Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Mix in almond extract (and cherry juice if using).
Step 4: Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 5: Gently fold in well-drained chopped cherries.
Step 6: Scoop 1-tablespoon portions and place 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
Step 7: Bake 10–12 minutes until bottoms are lightly golden.
Step 8: Cool 5 minutes on the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.

Pro Tips for the Best Almond Cherry Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
These cookies are great for holiday gifting.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract alongside the almond extract.
Make sure the cherries are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the dough.

Best Ways to Serve Almond Cherry Cookies

These cookies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them further! Serve Almond Cherry Cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Alternatively, pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a festive touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies before serving.

How to Store and Reheat Almond Cherry Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, making them perfect for meal prep or holiday treats. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds. They taste best when fresh but are still delightful even after a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions About Almond Cherry Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Almond Cherry Cookies?

The secret lies in ensuring your butter is softened but not melted. This helps create a fluffy texture when combined with sugar. Also, well-draining the cherries prevents sogginess in the cookies.

Can I make Almond Cherry Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just scoop the cookie dough onto baking sheets when you’re ready to bake.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Almond Cherry Cookies?

Common mistakes include using cold butter, which prevents proper creaming, and not measuring flour accurately. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for the best results.

Variations of Almond Cherry Cookies You Can Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are numerous variations to explore. For a gluten-free Almond Cherry Cookie, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also create vegan Almond Cherry Cookies by replacing butter with coconut oil and using a flax egg instead of traditional eggs. For a twist, try adding white chocolate chips or incorporating almond slivers for a crunchy texture. These variations keep the delightful essence of the original recipe while catering to different dietary needs.

For more delicious cookie recipes, check out Halloween Pinwheel Cookies or White Chocolate Maple Cookies. If you’re interested in gluten-free options, visit Sugar Cookie Ingredients for tips.