Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Soft, buttery, and filled with nostalgic comfort, these Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are everything you want in a melt-in-your-mouth treat. With a tender crumb and lightly crisped edges, they hold a surprise burst of cherry in the center, perfectly accented by the toasted almond slivers on top. This is not your average sugar cookie—it’s a small-batch bakery delight you can make right at home.

Whether you’re baking for the holidays, hosting a brunch, or just need a quick sweet treat, these cookies bring together the simple magic of Amish baking with a little twist. The cherry-almond pairing creates a flavor that feels both cozy and elegant, making them ideal for gift boxes or a charming afternoon snack with tea.

---

What Kind of Cherries and Almonds Work Best?

For the cherries, go for quality maraschino or jarred sour cherries. They offer a vibrant color and syrupy texture that pairs well with the richness of the dough. Avoid fresh cherries here—the extra moisture can throw off the soft sugar cookie base.

As for almonds, use sliced or slivered ones. They toast beautifully in the oven and add just the right amount of crunch to contrast with the delicate cookie texture. If you want a bolder almond taste, you can even add a drop or two of almond extract to the dough.

---

Ingredients for the Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

• Unsalted Butter – Creates that soft, tender, melt-in-your-mouth base essential to Amish cookies.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with that slightly crisp edge.
• Eggs – Provide structure and richness.
• All-Purpose Flour – The foundation of the cookie, giving it structure without making it dense.
• Baking Soda & Cream of Tartar – This combo gives the cookies their unique rise and chewy-soft texture.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall sweetness.
• Almond Extract – Adds depth and complements the cherry perfectly.
• Maraschino or Sour Cherries – The bright center of each cookie.
• Sliced Almonds – For texture, flavor, and visual appeal.
• Optional: Powdered Sugar – For a light dusting finish after baking.

---

How To Make the Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step helps create that signature soft texture.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Extracts

Mix in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla and almond extracts. Continue beating until well incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Gradually add the dry mix into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Scoop and Shape

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently press each one down and make a small indent in the center.

Step 5: Add Cherries and Almonds

Place one cherry in the center of each cookie and sprinkle the top with sliced almonds. Press almonds lightly so they adhere during baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are just turning golden. Avoid overbaking to maintain the soft texture.

Step 7: Cool and Optional Dusting

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, optionally dust with powdered sugar for an extra-sweet finish.

---

Serving and Storing These Cherry Almond Cookies

These cookies are best served at room temperature, allowing all the buttery richness and almond-cherry flavor to shine. They pair beautifully with black tea, coffee, or even a glass of milk. For an elegant touch, serve them on a tiered tray during brunch or as a sweet finale at a dinner party.

To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer and transfer to a sealed bag or container—they thaw wonderfully without losing texture.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the cookies soft after baking?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The moisture from the bread keeps the cookies soft for days.

Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

It’s not recommended for this recipe. Almond flour will make the cookies too crumbly and won’t give the same structure.

Can I use different fruits?

Yes! Try raspberries or a small dollop of strawberry preserves. Just avoid fresh fruits that add too much moisture.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Not for this recipe. The dough holds its shape well and is meant to be baked right after mixing.

How do I toast the almonds?

You don’t need to toast them beforehand—they toast perfectly while baking on top of the cookies.

Can I make them gluten-free?

You can try using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour, but the texture may vary slightly.

---

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these cherry almond Amish sugar cookies, you might also enjoy these delightful creations:

• Lemon Crinkle Sandwich Cookies with a bright, citrusy burst.
• Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles for a cozy fall-inspired chew.
• Peanut Butter Meringue Cookies with an airy, nutty finish.
• Brown Butter Bourbon Chocolate Chip Cookies for a rich adult twist.
• Maple Glazed Butter Pecan Cookies that scream holiday comfort.

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use maraschino or sour cherries? Add extra almonds? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own.

📍 Find more of my daily dessert ideas on my Pinterest: Life with Nina

---

Print