Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies

Introduction

These Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Amish sugar cookie. With their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, the addition of cherry and almond flavors makes these cookies an irresistible treat. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends!

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons almond extract
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained

For the Almond Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (more if needed for consistency)
• Sliced almonds for garnish (optional)
• Extra chopped maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs and almond extract: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the almond extract.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
5. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in cherries: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.

Shape and Bake the Cookies

1. Scoop the dough: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies should remain soft.
3. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Almond Glaze

1. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach a drizzling consistency.
2. Drizzle over cookies: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.

Garnish and Serve

1. Add garnishes: If desired, sprinkle the glazed cookies with sliced almonds and extra chopped maraschino cherries for a festive touch.
2. Set the glaze: Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Enjoy

Store the Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes

How to Serve

• Arrange on a decorative plate.
• Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Package as gifts for friends or family.
• Offer at potlucks or gatherings.

Additional Tips

1. Choose ripe cherries: Make sure your maraschino cherries are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
2. Adjust sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness of the glaze by modifying the powdered sugar and milk ratio.
3. Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
4. Try other flavors: Experiment with other extracts like vanilla or lemon for a different flavor profile.
5. Storage: Use an airtight container to keep the cookies fresh longer.

Recipe Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Omit the almond extract and use vanilla instead for a different flavor.
• Chocolate Version: Add mini chocolate chips for an added richness.
• Fruit Swap: Substitute cherries with blueberries or diced strawberries for a seasonal twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• Serve alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Include in a dessert platter with other cookies and treats.

Freezing and Storage

• To Freeze: Place baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to an airtight container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To Thaw: Remove cookies from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use salted butter?

• Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe if you do.

1. Can I make these cookies without almond extract?

• Absolutely! You can substitute with vanilla extract.

1. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

• Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.

1. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

• Yes, store it in the refrigerator and whisk before using.

1. What if I can’t find maraschino cherries?

• You can use dried cherries or other fruits as an alternative.

1. Are these cookies suitable for freezing?

• Yes, they freeze well! Just make sure they are in an airtight container.

1. How long do the cookies stay fresh?

• In an airtight container at room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for about 5 days.

1. Can I add more cherries?

• Yes, feel free to add more cherries for a stronger flavor.

1. What’s the best way to store these cookies?

• Keep them in an airtight container to maintain their softness.

1. Can I use a stand mixer instead of mixing by hand?
   • Yes, a stand mixer works great for creaming the butter and sugars!

Conclusion

Cherry Almond Amish Sugar Cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to please any cookie lover. Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth quality combined with the sweetness of cherries and the nutty flavor of almonds makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering, enjoying them with a cup of coffee, or giving them as a gift, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!

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