If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that brings a delightful twist to a classic treat, this Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe is an absolute game-changer. These cookies blend a tender, buttery base with the bright burst of maraschino cherries and the warm, nutty flavor of almond extract, creating a harmony that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to brighten your day, this recipe promises a soft, flavorful cookie that feels like a sweet hug from an old friend.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s giving the cookie its tender texture, that perfect sweet balance, or a hint of flavor that keeps you reaching for more.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and moisture for a tender bite.
- 1 cup vegetable oil: Adds extra softness and helps keep cookies fresh longer.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Offers sweetness and helps the cookies brown slightly on the edges.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Keeps the texture delicate and melt-in-your-mouth smooth.
- 2 large eggs: Bind all ingredients and contribute to the cookie’s structure.
- 1 tsp almond extract: Infuses the cookies with that classic, warm almond essence.
- 1 tsp baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise just enough.
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that creates the cookie’s hearty body.
- 1 tsp cream of tartar: Adds a slight tang and enhances the texture for those iconic Amish sugar cookies.
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained: Bursts of sweet, juicy color and flavor throughout each bite.
How to Make Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or keep them ungreased if you prefer – either way works well to ensure your cookies come off easily and bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter, Oil, and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, making your cookies wonderfully soft and tender once baked.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Almond Extract
Mix in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the almond extract to infuse your dough with that signature flavor that sets this Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe apart.
Step 4: Combine Your Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. This ensures even distribution of your leavening agents, which helps your cookies rise gently without becoming cakey.
Step 5: Bring the Dough Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just mixed. Over-mixing can tighten the dough and make your cookies tough, so take it slow and stop once everything is combined.
Step 6: Fold in the Maraschino Cherries
Carefully fold in the chopped maraschino cherries so that their vibrant color and sweetness are evenly dispersed throughout the dough. These cherries add a fun pop of flavor and color that make the cookies stand out.
Step 7: Shape and Flatten Your Cookies
Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Then, slightly flatten each cookie using the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar to add a subtle crunch and a pretty finish to the tops.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. You want to see the edges just turning golden while the centers stay soft—this balance will give you the perfect chewy texture these cookies are known for.
Step 9: Cool Before Enjoying
Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Cooling ensures they set properly and stay soft inside without becoming crumbly.
How to Serve Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy, festive look to these cookies. Fresh almond slices or a drizzle of white chocolate can also boost their visual and flavor appeal for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of tea, coffee, or even a glass of cold milk to balance their sweetness. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit bowls or creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange them on a rustic wooden board mixed with assorted nuts and dried cherries for a charming presentation. Wrapping a small stack in parchment and tying with a ribbon makes a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and soft for up to a week, perfect for nibbling throughout the week or sharing later.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies or the dough itself. For baked cookies, place them in a freezer bag or airtight container with parchment between layers and freeze for up to 3 months. For the dough, shape and flatten before freezing to make baking later a breeze.
Reheating
To enjoy your cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or reheat gently in a low oven for a few minutes. This revives that just-baked softness and aroma that’s so comforting.
FAQs
Can I substitute almond extract with vanilla?
Yes, you can swap almond extract with vanilla extract, but keep in mind that almond is what gives these cookies their unique flavor. Vanilla will make them taste more like traditional sugar cookies.
Are maraschino cherries necessary?
Maraschino cherries give these cookies a distinct sweetness and color, but you could use dried cherries or chopped glacé cherries if needed. Just adjust for sweetness, as maraschino cherries are quite sugary.
Why is cream of tartar used in this recipe?
Cream of tartar adds a subtle tanginess and helps improve texture, making the cookies tender yet slightly crisp on the edges, a hallmark of Amish sugar cookies.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
With a good gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, you can make these cookies gluten-free. However, texture might vary slightly, so be sure to check your flour’s specific needs.
How do I avoid cookies spreading too much?
Make sure your dough is well-chilled before baking, and avoid using too much oil or butter beyond the recipe amounts. Flattening with a sugared glass helps keep the shapes even.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe is truly a wonderful treat that combines nostalgia, flavor, and simple ingredients in a way that feels like baking a family tradition. They are as lovely to share as they are to eat, so don’t hesitate to whip up a batch and spread some sweet joy. Happy baking!
