Description
These Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat combining the classic buttery texture of sugar cookies with the sweet-tart flavor of maraschino cherries and the crunch of sliced almonds. Perfectly soft and slightly golden on the edges, these cookies make a charming addition to any dessert table or holiday celebration.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
Toppings
- 24 maraschino or jarred sour cherries
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.
- Mix Extracts and Dry Ingredients: Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts for flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to prevent overmixing and tough cookies.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly and make a small indent in the center to hold the topping.
- Add Cherry and Almonds: Place one maraschino or jarred sour cherry into the indent of each cookie, then sprinkle sliced almonds on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, ensuring they are cooked through but still soft inside.
- Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving to add a touch of sweetness and a festive look.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and better texture.
- Do not overmix the dough once the dry ingredients are added to keep the cookies tender.
- If maraschino cherries are too sweet, rinse them lightly to reduce excess syrup.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For a nut-free version, omit the sliced almonds and consider using a sprinkle of sugar or decorative sugar crystals instead.
