Ingredients: For the Cookies: 3/4 cup slivered almonds, ground 1 cup butter, softened 3/4 cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 8 ounces maraschino cherries, halved (reserve 1 teaspoon juice) Red decorating sugar (for garnish) For the Frosting: 2 cups powdered sugar 1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice 1 teaspoon almond extract 2-3 tablespoons milk Directions: Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, forming the base of your dough. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and ground almonds (pulse slivered almonds in a food processor until finely ground). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until fully combined and a soft dough forms. Shape the Cookies: Form the dough into tablespoon-sized balls. Press a small indent in the center of each ball using your thumb or the back of a spoon. Place a maraschino cherry half in the indent, then fold the dough over the cherry to form a ball again. Gently flatten the cookies slightly. Bake the Cookies: Place the shaped cookies on the parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-9 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Prepare the Cherry Frosting: While the cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, maraschino cherry juice, almond extract, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, dipping consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the tops of the cookies but thin enough to flow smoothly. Frost and Decorate: Dip the tops of each cooled cookie into the cherry frosting, then place them back on the wire rack. While the frosting is still wet, sprinkle with red decorating sugar for a pop of color and texture. Enjoy these delightful Almond Cherry Cookies!
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