If you’re craving a cookie that perfectly balances sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors, these Almond Cherry Cookies are the treat you’ve been waiting for. Soft, melt-in-your-mouth centers meet the delicate crunch of ground almonds and the juicy burst of maraschino cherries. Each bite delivers that nostalgic, bakery-style taste that instantly reminds you of festive gatherings and cozy family moments.
These cookies are an easy dessert idea that look as stunning as they taste. With their blush-pink glaze and sparkle of red sugar, they’re perfect for Christmas cookie exchanges, Valentine’s Day treats, or anytime you need a beautiful homemade gift. Plus, they’re a budget-friendly recipe that uses simple pantry staples and a handful of sweet cherries to create something truly special.
Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned home baker, this is one of those simple family recipes you’ll want to make all year long. So, preheat your oven it’s time to make one of the most irresistible easy dessert recipes you’ll ever try.
Why You’ll Love These Almond Cherry Cookies
- Quick and Easy to Make – You’ll go from mixing to baking in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for easy weeknight desserts or last-minute gatherings.
- Budget-Friendly Ingredients – Made with common baking staples and a single jar of cherries, this is a cost-effective dessert recipe you can make anytime.
- Beautiful Presentation – The pink frosting and cherry center make these cookies look bakery-perfect, ideal for holidays or parties.
- Family Favorite Flavor – A classic combination of almond and cherry that even picky eaters will love.
- Perfect for Meal Prep or Gifting – These cookies store well and make thoughtful, homemade holiday gifts.
- Customizable for Any Diet – Easily adaptable into gluten-free cookies or low-sugar dessert options.
Ingredient Breakdown
Slivered Almonds (¾ cup, ground) : These give the cookies a delicate nutty aroma and a subtle crunch. Grinding almonds enhances the texture while infusing natural oils for richer flavor. Almonds are a healthy ingredient packed with protein and vitamin E making your cookies both delicious and nutrient-rich.
Butter (1 cup, softened) : Butter adds moisture, tenderness, and flavor depth. Using real butter instead of margarine ensures your cookies stay soft inside while slightly crisp on the edges.
Powdered Sugar (¾ cup for dough + 2 cups for frosting) : Powdered sugar blends smoothly into the dough for a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s also the base for the creamy cherry-almond frosting that sets beautifully on top.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) : Vanilla enhances the sweetness and rounds out the nutty flavors. For a stronger aroma, use pure vanilla extract instead of imitation.
All-Purpose Flour (2¼ cups) : Flour provides structure and balance. If you’re making gluten-free cookies, you can easily swap it with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Salt (¼ teaspoon) : A touch of salt sharpens the flavors and balances the sweetness. Never skip it it makes a big difference!
Maraschino Cherries (8 oz jar, halved) : These add moisture, color, and irresistible fruity flavor. The syrupy sweetness complements the nutty almond base perfectly. Don’t forget to reserve a teaspoon of the cherry juice it gives the frosting its beautiful pink hue.
Red Decorating Sugar : For a festive finishing touch, this adds sparkle and crunch. It’s optional but makes your cookies truly eye-catching.
Frosting Ingredients
- Powdered Sugar (2 cups) – Creates a smooth, glossy glaze.
- Maraschino Cherry Juice (1 tablespoon) – Natural pink color and subtle cherry flavor.
- Almond Extract (1 teaspoon) – Amplifies the almond-cherry combination.
- Milk (2–3 tablespoons) – Adjusts frosting consistency to your liking.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Always use softened butter – Cold butter won’t cream properly and may cause dense cookies.
- Chill the dough (optional) – For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 20–30 minutes before baking.
- Use parchment paper – Prevents spreading and helps the cookies bake evenly.
- Let cookies cool before frosting – Frosting warm cookies will cause the glaze to melt.
- Add a pinch of cornstarch – For ultra-soft cookies, mix in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch to the dry ingredients.
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener and use almond flour instead of regular flour.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted dark chocolate over the frosting for a rich twist.
- Coconut-Almond Cookies: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
- Vegan Adaptation: Use vegan butter and plant-based milk for a dairy-free treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Add to a holiday cookie platter with sugar cookies and gingerbread men.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert combo.
- Pack them in decorative boxes as homemade holiday gifts.
- Serve at brunch or baby showers for a sweet touch.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
- To Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- To Freeze (Unfrosted): Place cooled cookies in layers with parchment paper in between and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To Thaw: Bring to room temperature, then frost before serving.
- Prep-Ahead Tip: Make the dough in advance and refrigerate for up to 48 hours before baking.
Cultural and Historical Notes
The almond-cherry pairing has deep roots in European baking traditions, especially Italian and German cookies. Almonds have long symbolized prosperity and love, while cherries represent sweetness and joy. This modern twist on classic almond cookies delivers old-world flavor with a festive, colorful upgrade making it a timeless American comfort food dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely. The dough can be made up to two days in advance or frozen for future baking.
2. How do I store leftover cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
3. Can I make this recipe healthier?
Yes! Use less sugar or swap it for a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. Whole wheat flour can also be substituted for a heartier texture.
4. Can I substitute the maraschino cherries?
Dried cherries, candied cranberries, or even fresh pitted cherries can be used for a different flavor twist.
5. What’s the best way to get soft cookies?
Avoid overbaking they should be slightly underdone when you pull them out. They’ll continue to set as they cool.
Almond Cherry Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and ground almonds. Gradually add to the butter mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
- Step 4: Scoop about a tablespoon of dough, make a small pit in the center, and place half a maraschino cherry inside. Fold the dough around the cherry to form a ball.
- Step 5: Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten them slightly.
- Step 6: Bake for 8–9 minutes or until edges are just beginning to turn golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
- Step 7: Prepare the frosting by whisking together powdered sugar, maraschino cherry juice, almond extract, and milk (adding one tablespoon at a time) until it reaches a smooth dipping consistency.
- Step 8: Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the frosting, then place them back on the wire rack. Sprinkle with red decorating sugar and let the frosting set before serving.
