Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and adore classic homemade cookies with a delightful twist, then the Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe is just what you need to try next. This recipe combines the nostalgic charm of traditional Amish sugar cookies with the vibrant pop of maraschino cherries and the warm aroma of almond extract, resulting in soft, tender cookies that melt in your mouth. The balance of buttery goodness, a hint of almond, and bursts of cherry sweetness create a truly unforgettable treat that’s perfect for sharing at family gatherings or savoring with your favorite cup of tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the key to making these cookies. Each component plays a critical part in ensuring the perfect texture, flavor, and color — from the richness of butter and oil to the bright cherries and fragrant almond extract.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and creates a tender crumb.
• 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps cookies moist and soft without heaviness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides the essential sweetness and helps with caramelization.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Contributes to the light, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and give structure.
• 1 tsp almond extract: Infuses the dough with a warm, nutty aroma that complements the cherries.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become delightfully soft.
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, giving it body and chewiness.
• 1 tsp cream of tartar: Adds slight tang and tenderness, a hallmark in Amish sugar cookies.
• 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained: Delivers bursts of sweet, juicy cherry flavor throughout every bite.

How to Make Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Baking Sheets

First things first, get your oven warmed up to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your cookies start baking immediately on a hot surface. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and guarantee easy cleanup, or simply leave them ungreased if you prefer.

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 the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, giving your cookies a soft and tender texture that will make every bite heavenly.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Almond Extract

Next, beat in the eggs one at a time to fully incorporate them without deflating the mixture. Follow with the almond extract, which brings that signature nutty aroma to the dough, making these cookies stand out from any other sugar cookie you’ve tasted.

Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Combining these dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution and avoids clumps, which helps your dough mix smoothly and bake evenly.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Gently

Now, slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mix, folding gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so aim for a soft dough with no streaks of flour visible. This gentle touch will reward you with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie.

Step 6: Fold in the Chopped Maraschino Cherries

Carefully fold in the drained, chopped cherries. These little bursts of bright color and juicy sweetness bring an exciting twist to the classic Amish sugar cookies, making each bite uniquely delightful.

Step 7: Shape and Flatten the Dough

Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Using the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar, gently flatten each cookie slightly. This technique adds just the right amount of crunch to the edges while keeping the center soft and chewy.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges turn lightly golden but the centers still look soft. This baking time locks in moisture while developing a tender, slightly crisp exterior.

Step 9: Cool Before Enjoying

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This resting time helps the cookies set perfectly, so you get the ideal texture with every bite.

How to Serve Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

While these cookies shine on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate can add that extra touch of elegance. Toasted sliced almonds sprinkled on top right after baking also complement the almond flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a cup of hot tea or fresh-brewed coffee for the ultimate cozy snack. They also pair delightfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat that feels festive and comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider arranging your Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe on a decorative platter with fresh cherries and almond slivers for a stunning holiday or party centerpiece. Wrapping a stack of these cookies in parchment paper tied with a ribbon makes an excellent homemade gift that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their delightful softness for up to a week. Keeping them sealed prevents them from drying out and preserves that perfect chewy texture you loved right out of the oven.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these treats later, freeze the unbaked dough balls on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. You can also freeze fully baked cookies in airtight containers for up to 3 months without sacrificing flavor.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth, reheat the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This method refreshes their softness and revives the aroma of almond and cherries, making them taste as good as the first day you baked them.

FAQs

Can I substitute maraschino cherries with fresh cherries?

Fresh cherries can be used, but keep in mind that their higher moisture content might affect the cookie texture. If you do substitute, pit and chop them finely, and consider reducing other liquids slightly to maintain dough consistency.

What makes Amish sugar cookies different from regular sugar cookies?

Amish sugar cookies often include cream of tartar, which adds a subtle tang and contributes to a tender, chewy texture. They also tend to be thicker and softer with a more rustic charm compared to typical sugar cookies.

Is almond extract necessary for this recipe?

Almond extract is a key flavor component here, elevating the sweetness and complementing the cherries perfectly. While you can omit it, the cookies won’t have the same distinctive aroma and depth of flavor.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Baking time and texture may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the cookies as they bake.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This resting period actually helps to meld the flavors and can result in an even better texture when baked fresh the next day.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe that makes it a cherished favorite in any household. With its simple ingredients, nostalgic feel, and incredible flavor combination, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your kitchen. I encourage you to bake a batch soon and create your own delicious memories with every bite.

Print