Quick & Delicious Almond Cherry Cookies

A Festive, Soft, and Sweet Treat You’ll Make All Year Long

Some recipes just feel like a warm hug, and these Almond Cherry Cookies are exactly that kind of comfort. They’re soft, buttery, and dotted with bright cherry pieces that make them look as joyful as they taste. Whether you’re preparing a holiday cookie box, hosting a cozy gathering, or simply craving something homemade, these cookies never fail to bring a little extra cheer to your day.

What makes them special isn’t just the flavor — it’s the combination of textures. You get the gentle crunch of almonds, the tender bite of the cookie itself, and the sweet pop of maraschino cherries tucked inside. They’re charming, easy to make, and perfectly suited for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or any moment when you want a touch of sweetness.

Why These Almond Cherry Cookies Are Worth Baking

A beautiful flavor pairing: Almonds and cherries complement each other naturally, giving each bite a rich, fruity balance.
Soft and chewy texture: They stay tender in the center with lightly crisp edges.
Festive look: The bright red cherries make these cookies feel instantly celebratory.
Simple to prepare: No complicated steps, just straightforward baking for anyone at any skill level.
Perfect anytime: Enjoy them with coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or pack them into a holiday tin.

What You’ll Need

For the Cookies

• 3/4 cup finely ground slivered almonds
  
• 1 cup softened butter
  
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
  
• 8 ounces maraschino cherries, halved (save 1 teaspoon of the liquid)
  
• Red decorating sugar (optional but festive)
  

For the Frosting

• 2 cups powdered sugar
  
• 1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice
  
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
  
• 2–3 tablespoons milk
  

How to Make Almond Cherry Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven

Warm your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cream the Wet Ingredients

Beat together the butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until the mixture is smooth, pale, and creamy.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a second bowl, whisk the flour, salt, and ground almonds.
Slowly add this dry mixture to the butter mixture until the dough fully comes together.

4. Shape the Cookies

Take a spoonful of dough and gently press a small indentation in the center.
Place half a cherry inside, then roll the dough into a neat ball.
Arrange them on your baking tray and press lightly to flatten.

5. Bake the Cookies

Place the tray in the oven and bake for 8 to 9 minutes.
You’ll know they’re done when the edges start turning a light golden color and the tops look set.
Move the cookies to a cooling rack and allow them to cool down fully before you add any frosting.

6. Prepare the Frosting

In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, a splash of cherry juice, and the almond extract.
Slowly pour in the milk—just a little at a time—until the frosting becomes silky and easy to dip into without being runny.

7. Decorate the Cookies

Once completely cooled, dip the top of each cookie into the frosting.
Set them back on the rack, then add a sprinkle of red sugar while the frosting is still wet so it sticks beautifully.

Storing the Almond Cherry Cookies

Refrigerator Method

Arrange the cookies in an airtight container, placing parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
They’ll stay delicious for up to one week, keeping a firm yet chewy texture when chilled.

In the Freezer

Freeze the baked cookies on a sheet until firm, then move them to a freezer bag or container.
They keep beautifully for up to 3 months.

To enjoy again, let them thaw at room temperature — or give them a quick warm-up for that cozy, freshly baked feeling.

Variations You Can Try

• Switch the fruit: Try dried cranberries, diced cherries, or even raspberries.
  
• Try new nuts: Pistachios, pecans, or walnuts bring fresh flavor twists.
  
• Boost the almond flavor: Add a hint of almond extract to the dough.
  
• Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
  
• Dairy-free option: Substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
  

Love these Almond Cherry Cookies? Try baking our Festive Pavlova Christmas Tree next for another fun and festive holiday treat.

Final Thoughts

These Almond Cherry Cookies have everything you want in a homemade treat — sweetness, color, texture, and a recipe easy enough to make anytime. They’re the kind of cookies people ask about, remember, and request again the next time you’re baking.

Whether they’re for a festive celebration or just a slow afternoon at home, they bring warmth and happiness in every bite.