Name: Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies: A Buttery Treat You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 88 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (at room temperature); 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar (can be substituted with granulated sugar); 2 tablespoons Maraschino Cherry Juice (optional); 1 teaspoon Almond Extract (substitute with vanilla extract for a different profile); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (balances sweetness); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (can use equivalent gluten-free flour); 1 cup Maraschino Cherries (chopped)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something mesmerizing about the aroma of baking cookies that instantly transforms a moment into a celebration. If you’re craving a homemade treat that brings joy and comfort wrapped in buttery goodness, these Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies are just what you need. With their crisp edges and tender, melt-in-your-mouth center, they offer a delightful twist on traditional shortbread, thanks to the sweet notes of maraschino cherries and fragrant almond extract. Not only are they an enchanting addition to your holiday gatherings, but they also make for a perfect companion to your afternoon tea, helping you escape the grips of fast food. So, why settle for less when you can fill your kitchen with warmth and happiness? Ready to bake a special memory?

Why are these cookies a must-bake?

Irresistible Flavor: You’ll adore how the maraschino cherries and almond extract dance together to create a sweet symphony.

Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these cookies require only basic baking skills, making them accessible for everyone.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon pick-me-up, they are a delightful touch. Pair them with a cup of tea or enjoy them alongside your favorite dessert, just like our delicious Lemon Raspberry Cookies.

Texture Delight: Expect a divine contrast between the crisp edges and tender middle, ensuring every bite is truly satisfying.

Make Ahead Option: With a quick freeze option, you can prep these in advance, making them great for last-minute gatherings. Cheering your taste buds is easier than ever!

Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy incorporation.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to a tender texture; can be substituted with granulated sugar, though texture may vary.
Maraschino Cherry Juice – Infuses the dough with a hint of cherry flavor; optional but can enhance the cherry almond flavor more fully.
Almond Extract – Imparts a sweet, nutty flavor, characteristic of these cookies; substitute with vanilla extract for a different profile.
Salt – Balances sweetness, ensuring the cookies are flavorful.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; equivalent gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option.
Maraschino Cherries – Adds chunks of fruity sweetness; substitute with chopped Amareno cherries for a different flavor profile.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Cream Ingredients
In a stand mixer, combine room temperature unsalted butter, powdered sugar, maraschino cherry juice, almond extract, and salt. Beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes. The frosting should be light and fluffy; take a moment to appreciate the delightful aroma of the cherry and almond!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the all-purpose flour while mixing on low speed. Continue until the dough begins to form a crumbly texture, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to tougher Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies. Stop when the flour is just incorporated, and the dough looks sandy.

Step 3: Incorporate Cherries
Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries using a rubber spatula. Make sure the cherries are evenly distributed throughout the dough for that burst of fruity flavor in every bite. Be gentle in your folding to keep the dough light and airy — aim for a nice mix with visible bits of cherry.

Step 4: Shape Dough
Transfer the dough mixture onto a long piece of parchment paper. Shape the dough into a log, approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap it tightly in the parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling is key, as it helps maintain the shape during baking, so don’t skip this step!

Step 5: Preheat Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350℉ (177℃). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with silicone mats or parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface for your cookies. The warm, inviting smell from the oven will soon create excitement as you get closer to baking your Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies.

Step 6: Cut & Bake
Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and carefully unwrap it. Slice the dough log into ⅓-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife. Arrange the cookie slices on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them an inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 11 to 13 minutes, or until the edges are set and just barely golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips for Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies

Butter Consistency: Ensure your butter is completely softened to room temperature; cold butter will make it difficult to achieve a creamy mixture.
Gentle Mixing: Mix the dough just enough to combine the flour; overworking can lead to tough Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies. Remember, a light touch is key!
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps the cookies hold their shape during baking and enhances the flavors. If it feels too soft, refrigerate longer.
Right Thickness: When slicing, make sure your cookie rounds are uniform in thickness; this ensures even baking for a perfect texture throughout.
Customize Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of maraschino cherry juice; more can heighten the cherry flavor, providing a delightful burst in every bite!

What to Serve with Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies

Imagine a delightful spread to complement your sweet creations, inviting friends and family to indulge in cozy moments together.

Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a smooth contrast, enhancing the rich buttery flavor of the cookies. Serve bowls topped with fresh cherries for an extra touch!
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea offers a soothing balance to the sweetness of your cookies, perfect for a comforting afternoon break.
Chocolate Drizzle: Add a touch of elegance by drizzling melted dark chocolate over the cookies for a rich pairing. The bittersweet chocolate beautifully contrasts the sweet cherry and almond flavors!
Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a pop of color and freshness, complementing the rich texture of the cookies with a burst of juiciness.
Almond Milk: The nutty flavor of almond milk echoes the almond extract in your cookies, making it a delightful drink choice that ties everything together. It’s calming and creamy, a perfect sip alongside a cookie!
Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits, like apples and pears, can add crunch and brightness to your dessert table, offering a refreshing counterpart to the richness of the cookies.

Elevate your gatherings with these pairings and create memories that taste as good as they feel!

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want a homemade treat with minimal last-minute fuss! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply shape it into a log, wrap tightly in parchment paper, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. For even longer storage, freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply slice the logs into rounds and bake them straight from the fridge or freezer (add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen). This way, you’ll enjoy just as delicious cookies while saving valuable time during hectic weeks!

Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies Variations

Customize your Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies and delight in new flavors and textures that can make your baking experience even more fun!

Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil for a plant-based version that still delivers great flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Complete your cookies with a rich chocolate drizzle or chunks for a delightful contrast against the cherry and almond. The combination of chocolate and fruits is irresistible!
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, aromatic twist. Just a dash can elevate the flavor profile, bringing in cozy vibes.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped almonds or pecans for an added crunch that complements the almond extract beautifully. These crunchy bites provide delightful texture with every nibble.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus note that brightens up the overall flavor. The zest adds a vivacious touch, making them even more delightful!
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend to make these cookies friendly for gluten-sensitive folks. With just this simple change, everyone can enjoy these treats!
Extra Cherries: Feel free to increase the quantity of chopped maraschino cherries for a juicier burst of cherry flavor in each cookie. More cherries mean more sweet, fruity happiness!

Explore other fantastic cookie recipes like our Blueberry Cookies Soft or create a chocolate lover’s dream with Chocolate Chip Cookies that will surely impress your loved ones!

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming stale.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the cookies, but be sure to place them in a sealed container to avoid moisture absorption.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy freshly baked flavors again, thaw cookies at room temperature, then warm them in a preheated oven at 350℉ (177℃) for 5-7 minutes. Enjoy your Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies!

Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries should I use in my cookies?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using maraschino cherries for their sweet flavor and vibrant color. However, you can also substitute with chopped Amareno cherries if you’re seeking a deeper cherry taste. If you decide to use fresh cherries, make sure they are pitted and diced into small pieces for even distribution in the dough.

How should I store my Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies?
Very importantly, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This method keeps them fresh and prevents them from becoming stale. If you’re not planning to eat them all right away, you can refrigerate the cookies in a sealed container; they will retain their texture, and you can enjoy them chilled!

Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy some, simply let them thaw at room temperature, then warm them in a preheated oven at 350℉ (177℃) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their lovely texture.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too soft?
If you find that your dough feels too soft and sticky, don’t worry! Simply wrap the dough log in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour. Chilling will solidify the butter and make it easier to slice the dough into cookies. Remember, keeping the dough properly chilled is key to achieving the perfect cookie shape during baking!

Can I make any substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use an equivalent amount of gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour in your Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies. For those who are avoiding nuts, feel free to substitute almond extract with vanilla extract. Just a note, always read labels if you’re concerned about allergies, especially when using maraschino cherries, as they might contain additives.

How long can I keep baked cookies in the fridge?
Baked Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just ensure they are in an airtight container to keep them from drying out or absorbing odors from other food items in your fridge. Enjoy them as a refreshing snack anytime you need a little sweetness in your day!