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 perfect for any occasion and are guaranteed to be a smash hit for the holidays. Their unique flavor profile combines the sweetness of cherries with the fragrant notes of almonds, making them a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The delicious blend of cherry and almond flavors makes these cookies irresistible.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a sweet gift for loved ones.
• Large Batch: This recipe yields 48 cookies, ensuring there’s enough to share (or keep for yourself!).
• Foolproof Icing: The thick cherry-almond icing adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easy, ensuring a light texture in your cookies.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients separately before mixing them together.
• Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy base for baking your cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your freshly baked cookies from the baking sheets.

Ingredients

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. Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are simple to make, foolproof, and a batch goes a long way!

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: Prepare Your Oven

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

Step 2: 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 both almond extract and cherry extract until well combined.

In another bowl:
4. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Fold in the minced maraschino cherries gently.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared sheets about 2 inches apart.
3. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.

Step 4: Prepare the Icing

While cookies cool:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter with reserved maraschino cherry juice.
2. Add almond extract and cherry extract; mix well.
3. Gradually stir in powdered sugar until you reach desired consistency.

Step 5: Decorate Your Cookies

Once cookies have cooled completely:
1. Drizzle or spread icing over each cookie generously.
2. Sprinkle slivered almonds on top while icing is still wet.

Enjoy your delightful Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

These delightful Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their unique blend of cherry and almond flavors makes them a standout treat. Here are some creative ways to serve them:

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that enhances the sweet flavors.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with other baked goods like brownies and bars for a festive dessert table.

Gift Boxes

• Pack these cookies in cute gift boxes or tins as homemade gifts for friends and family during the holidays or special events.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches. Choose vanilla or cherry-flavored ice cream to complement the cookie flavors.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Serve these cookies alongside your favorite coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack that satisfies your sweet tooth.

How to Perfect Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

To elevate your baking game, here are some essential tips for making the best Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Drain Cherries Well: Squeeze maraschino cherries dry before adding them to the dough to prevent excess moisture, which can affect cookie consistency.

• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain shape during baking.

• Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies from the oven when they’re just set and lightly golden around the edges. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings. Consider adding sprinkles or more slivered almonds on top of the icing for extra flair.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

These sugar cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here’s a list of options that enhance your dessert experience:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory contrast that complements the cookie flavors.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a healthy side that pairs well with dessert treats.

4. Nut Mix
   A bowl of mixed nuts offers a crunchy texture contrast while providing healthy fats and protein.

5. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   These sweet treats add an elegant touch and pair nicely with the cherry flavor in your cookies.

6. Coffee Cake
   A slice of light coffee cake enhances your cookie experience, especially during brunch or afternoon tea time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined for soft, puffy results.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling your dough can result in cookies that spread too much. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cookie texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Not Measuring Flour Accurately: Too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly. Use a spoon to fluff up flour before scooping it into the measuring cup.
• Using Wet Cherries: Adding too much moisture from the cherries can make dough sticky. Ensure cherries are minced and squeezed very dry before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for soft cookies.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies that may help you perfect your baking!

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes! Just be sure to pit and finely chop them, ensuring they are well-drained.

How do I get my icing thick enough?

Add powdered sugar gradually until you reach your desired thickness. A thicker icing will hold its shape better.

Can I substitute butter with margarine?

Yes! You can use margarine as a substitute, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of your cookies.

What is the best way to decorate these cookies?

You can drizzle or spread the thick cherry-almond icing over cooled cookies, then sprinkle with slivered almonds for added flair.

How long does it take for these cookies to cool completely?

Allow about 15-20 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile. Their soft texture and unique flavors make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or using different extracts. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to impress family and friends!