Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make this recipe accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile: Perfect for holidays, parties, or as a homemade gift.
• Beautiful Presentation: The pink glaze and optional garnishes make these cookies as pretty as they are tasty.
• Unique Flavor: The combination of almond extract and maraschino cherry juice creates a one-of-a-kind sweet treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookies

• Butter (softened)
• Vegetable oil
• Granulated sugar
• Powdered sugar
• Large eggs (room temperature)
• Almond extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Cream of tartar
• Salt

For the Glaze

• Powdered sugar
• Maraschino cherry juice
• Almond extract

Optional Garnish

• Chopped maraschino cherries
• Slivered almonds

Directions

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the almond extract.
3. Gradually mix in the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to make it easier to handle.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared sheets about 2 inches apart.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
4. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maraschino cherry juice, and almond extract until smooth.
2. Adjust the consistency with more cherry juice for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.

Step 5: Decorate the Cookies

1. Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled cookies.
2. Garnish with chopped maraschino cherries or slivered almonds for an extra touch of flavor and elegance.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 36 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes per batch

Variations

• Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolate-cherry flavor.
• Citrus Version: Substitute maraschino cherry juice with orange or lemon juice for a citrusy glaze.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cookies (with or without glaze) for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Enjoy at room temperature; no reheating needed.

FAQs

What makes Amish sugar cookies unique?

Amish sugar cookies are known for their soft, tender texture and use of both butter and oil for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes, but fresh cherries won’t provide the same vibrant pink glaze or intense flavor as maraschino cherry juice.

Do I have to chill the dough?

Chilling is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours or frozen for up to 3 months.

How do I prevent my glaze from being too runny?

Start with 2 tablespoons of cherry juice and gradually add more until the desired consistency is reached.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

You can substitute vanilla extract, though the almond flavor adds a unique touch to this recipe.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, but ensure your mixing bowl is large enough for the increased quantity.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

Use plant-based butter, a neutral oil, and an egg substitute like flaxseed meal mixed with water.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own, but the glaze adds a special touch.

What’s the best way to garnish these cookies?

Chopped maraschino cherries and slivered almonds are ideal for both flavor and aesthetics.

Conclusion

These Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies combine classic cookie texture with a delightful cherry-almond twist. They’re easy to make, beautiful to present, and impossible to resist. Whether for a holiday, gift, or afternoon treat, these cookies will quickly become a favorite. Give them a try and enjoy every soft, buttery bite!