maraschino cherry sugar cookies (Print Version)

Buttery cookies with maraschino cherries and almond notes, finished with a sparkling sugar touch.

# Ingredients:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

04 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
08 - 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
09 - 3/4 cup maraschino cherries, finely chopped and well drained
10 - 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice

→ Garnish

11 - Red sanding sugar or powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well blended.
03 - In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy.
04 - Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and cherry juice until fully incorporated and smooth.
05 - Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined.
06 - Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries using a spatula, ensuring even distribution.
07 - Scoop dough by level tablespoonfuls, rolling each between your palms if needed, and place 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
08 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and centers appear soft but not wet.
09 - Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, garnish cooled cookies with red sanding sugar or a dusting of powdered sugar.

# Notes:

01 - Thoroughly drain and finely chop the maraschino cherries to prevent excess moisture in the dough.