There’s something magical about biting into a cookie that’s soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor. Cherry Almond Cookies capture that magic perfectly. These cookies combine the rich creaminess of butter and cream cheese with the sweet tang of maraschino cherries and a hint of almond extract, creating a flavor profile that’s both classic and slightly unexpected. Topped with a delicate drizzle of white chocolate, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious.
I first made these cookies for a holiday gathering, and they vanished almost instantly. The combination of textures—the tender cookie base, juicy cherry centers, and creamy white chocolate drizzle—makes them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, gifting homemade treats, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies deliver every time. Their slightly tangy, buttery flavor and charming cherry highlight make them a standout in any cookie lineup.
Recipe Overview
Cherry Almond Cookies are soft, tender cookies made with a cream cheese and butter base, packed with sweet maraschino cherries, and subtly flavored with almond extract. Finished with a drizzle of melted white chocolate, they are both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying. With minimal prep and a few key steps, these cookies are a must-have for any baker looking to impress.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 20 ounces maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Cream Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, cream cheese, and brown sugar. Beat with a hand or stand mixer until light, fluffy, and well incorporated. This creates the soft, tender texture these cookies are known for.
3. Add Egg and Extracts
Add the egg, salt, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined, ensuring that the batter is smooth and uniform.
4. Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—overworking the dough can lead to tougher cookies.
5. Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours. Chilling is essential to prevent spreading and helps the cookies maintain their soft, thick shape.
6. Form the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, form 1-inch balls from the chilled dough and place them onto the prepared cookie sheet. Press a small well into the top of each ball using your thumb or the back of a spoon.
7. Add the Cherries
Place a maraschino cherry into each indentation. These cherries add sweetness, color, and a delightful texture contrast in each bite.
8. Bake
Bake the cookies for approximately 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain soft. Cool completely on a wire rack before adding the finishing touch.
9. Drizzle White Chocolate
Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth. Transfer to a small plastic bag, snip a corner, and drizzle over the cooled cookies. Allow the chocolate to set completely before serving.
Baking Tips & Variations
1. Cherry Tips
- Patting cherries dry is crucial to prevent excess moisture from making the dough soggy.
- Try halved cherries or maraschino cocktail cherries for different sizes and flavors.
2. Flavor Enhancements
- Add a sprinkle of slivered almonds on top of each cherry before baking for extra crunch.
- A touch of orange zest in the dough pairs beautifully with almond extract.
3. Texture Adjustments
- For softer cookies, bake a minute less.
- For slightly firmer cookies, bake an extra 1–2 minutes, keeping an eye on edges.
4. White Chocolate Alternatives
- Drizzle with milk or dark chocolate for contrast.
- For a more decadent version, dip half of each cookie in chocolate instead of drizzling.
5. Storage
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze unbaked dough balls or baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a dessert platter centerpiece at parties or holiday gatherings.
- Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for the perfect snack.
- Gift in a decorative tin or cellophane bag for homemade treats that impress.
Cherry Almond Cookies are a timeless treat that balances sweetness, tartness, and soft, chewy texture. The cream cheese-based dough keeps them tender, the maraschino cherries add a burst of flavor, and the white chocolate drizzle elevates them to bakery-level elegance. These cookies are perfect for holidays, gatherings, or simply indulging at home.
With minimal prep and straightforward steps, they’re approachable for both beginner and experienced bakers. One bite and you’ll understand why these cookies are a classic favorite that will keep you coming back for more.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cherries instead of maraschino?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well to prevent extra moisture in the dough.
2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely. Chill dough up to 24 hours before baking. Cookies can also be baked and stored for up to 5 days.
3. Can I use a different extract instead of almond?
Vanilla extract alone works, but almond extract gives a distinct flavor that pairs perfectly with cherries.
4. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, portion the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag for up to 3 months.
5. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough thoroughly and avoid overbaking.
Soft, chewy Cherry Almond Cookies with cream cheese dough, maraschino cherries, and white chocolate drizzle. Perfect for holidays, gifts, or everyday indulgence.
