Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries won't work as well in this recipe because they contain more moisture and less concentrated flavor. Maraschino cherries provide both the distinctive color and sweetness that makes these cookies special. If you must substitute, try dried cherries that have been rehydrated in warm water and drained well.

Why did my cookies spread too much during baking?

The most common reason is not chilling the dough long enough. The butter needs to be firm when the cookies go into the oven. Other culprits include using too little flour, overly softened butter in the initial mixing, or a warm kitchen. Place remaining dough back in the refrigerator between batches.

Can I make these cookies without almond extract?

While you can substitute additional vanilla extract for the almond extract, you'll lose the signature flavor that makes these cookies unique. The almond extract perfectly complements the cherry flavor. If you have a nut allergy, try using a small amount of coconut extract instead.

How can I make the frosting less sweet?

The frosting is meant to be sweet, but you can balance it by adding a tiny pinch of salt and a few drops of lemon juice. This counteracts some of the sweetness without changing the flavor profile significantly. You can also spread a thinner layer on each cookie.

Cherry Almond Sugar Cookies Recipe

This irresistible Cherry Almond Sugar Cookie recipe combines the sweet tang of maraschino cherries with the nutty warmth of almond in a soft, buttery cookie that’s topped with vibrant cherry frosting. These gorgeous pink treats are perfect for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or anytime you need a cheerful, delicious cookie that stands out from the crowd!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Show-Stopping Appearance: The natural pink color from the maraschino cherries creates a beautiful cookie that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious.
Perfect Texture: These cookies have a wonderful soft center with slightly crisp edges—the ideal cookie texture that holds up well to frosting.
Unique Flavor Combo: The almond extract and maraschino cherries create a flavor profile that’s unexpected and completely addictive.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The dough actually benefits from chilling, making this a perfect recipe to prepare in advance of parties or gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cherry Almond Cookies:

Butter: Creates a rich, tender texture and carries flavor throughout the dough. Make sure it’s properly softened for the best incorporation.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies while helping them spread just the right amount during baking.
Milk: Adds necessary moisture to the dough for the perfect consistency.
Vanilla Extract: Provides that classic warm cookie flavor that complements both the cherries and almond.
Almond Extract: The secret weapon that elevates these cookies from good to unforgettable. Don’t skip this!
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our cookies that provides structure while keeping them tender.
Maraschino Cherries: The star of the show! They bring color, sweetness, and a fruity pop that makes these cookies special.

For the Cherry Frosting:

Butter: Creates a rich, smooth frosting base that sets up beautifully.
Maraschino Cherry Juice: Delivers both natural color and concentrated cherry flavor without artificial ingredients.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the frosting flavors with a classic warmth.
Powdered Sugar: Provides structure and sweetness to the frosting, allowing you to adjust to your preferred consistency.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Want to put your own spin on these delightful cookies? Try these creative twists:

White Chocolate Wonder: Fold 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips into the dough alongside the cherries for an extra layer of sweetness.
Chocolate Cherry Dream: Dip half of each frosted cookie into melted dark chocolate for a decadent finish.
Coconut Cherry Paradise: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the dough and sprinkle toasted coconut on top of the frosting.
Cherry Sandwich Cookies: Skip the frosting and instead sandwich cherry jam or cherry buttercream between two cookies.

How to Make Cherry Almond Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract, then mix until thoroughly combined and smooth.

Step 2: Add Flour and Cherries

Add the flour to your butter mixture and beat until a soft dough forms. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Cover your cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This crucial step prevents the cookies from spreading too much and concentrates their flavor.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Roll approximately 1 heaping tablespoon of dough into a ball and place onto the prepared baking sheets, allowing room for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are very lightly browned but centers still look slightly soft.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key—frosting warm cookies will cause the frosting to melt!

Step 7: Make the Cherry Frosting

In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, maraschino cherry juice, and vanilla extract. Gradually whisk in powdered sugar until you achieve a thick, spreadable consistency. Adjust with additional powdered sugar or cherry juice as needed.

Step 8: Frost and Decorate

Generously spread frosting on each cooled cookie. If desired, top with sliced almonds and a maraschino cherry for the perfect decorative finish.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Pat Your Cherries Dry: After chopping the maraschino cherries, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture that could affect your dough consistency.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter is properly softened and other ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest incorporation.
Don’t Skip Chilling: The chilling step is non-negotiable! It prevents flat cookies and allows the flavors to fully develop.
Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniform cookies that bake evenly, use a cookie scoop rather than eyeballing the size.
Watch the Bake Time Carefully: These cookies should remain soft in the center. When the edges are just barely turning golden, they’re ready to come out!

How to Serve

These Cherry Almond Sugar Cookies are versatile treats that shine in various settings:

Holiday Platters

Arrange on a festive platter alongside other cookies for a colorful holiday cookie spread. The red and pink tones make them perfect for Valentine’s Day or Christmas.

Gift Packages

Stack in clear gift bags tied with ribbon for a homemade gift that’s sure to impress friends, neighbors, or teachers.

Dessert Tables

Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a beautiful dessert option at dinner parties or family gatherings.

Tea Time Companion

Pair with a cup of almond tea or hot chocolate for an afternoon treat that feels special and indulgent.

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead Options

The cookie dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking. You can also roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

Storing Leftovers

Store frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Unfrosted cookies freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting. I don’t recommend freezing frosted cookies as the texture of the frosting may change.

Refresh Stale Cookies

If cookies begin to harden after a few days, place a slice of bread in the storage container. The cookies will absorb moisture from the bread and soften up nicely.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries won’t work as well in this recipe because they contain more moisture and less concentrated flavor. Maraschino cherries provide both the distinctive color and sweetness that makes these cookies special. If you must substitute, try dried cherries that have been rehydrated in warm water and drained well.
Why did my cookies spread too much during baking?

The most common reason is not chilling the dough long enough. The butter needs to be firm when the cookies go into the oven. Other culprits include using too little flour, overly softened butter in the initial mixing, or a warm kitchen. Place remaining dough back in the refrigerator between batches.
Can I make these cookies without almond extract?

While you can substitute additional vanilla extract for the almond extract, you’ll lose the signature flavor that makes these cookies unique. The almond extract perfectly complements the cherry flavor. If you have a nut allergy, try using a small amount of coconut extract instead.
How can I make the frosting less sweet?

The frosting is meant to be sweet, but you can balance it by adding a tiny pinch of salt and a few drops of lemon juice. This counteracts some of the sweetness without changing the flavor profile significantly. You can also spread a thinner layer on each cookie.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Almond Sugar Cookies are truly something special—bringing together the nostalgic sweetness of maraschino cherries with the sophisticated flavor of almond in a cookie that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because it’s Tuesday, they’re sure to bring smiles all around. The perfect balance of fruity and nutty flavors wrapped up in a soft, buttery cookie is simply irresistible!