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Christmas Morning Punch Recipe

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4.5 from 134 reviews

Delightfully buttery and nutty Almond Cherry Cookies with a tender crumb, studded with sweet maraschino cherries, and topped with a glossy almond-cherry flavored glaze and sparkling red sugar. Perfect for festive occasions or a sophisticated treat with tea or coffee.

Ingredients

Cookies

  • ¾ cup slivered almonds, ground
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar, divided
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 8 ounces maraschino cherries, halved (about 1 jar), reserve juice
  • 1 teaspoon maraschino cherry juice
  • Red decorating sugar, for sprinkling

Frosting

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, ¾ cup powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground slivered almonds to distribute evenly.
  4. Form Cookie Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
  5. Shape Cookies with Cherries: Scoop about a tablespoon of dough, create a small pit in the center, then place a halved maraschino cherry inside. Carefully fold the dough around the cherry and roll into a smooth ball. Place each cookie on the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten slightly.
  6. Bake the Cookies: Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-9 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a light golden brown. Remove from oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
  7. Prepare the Frosting: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, maraschino cherry juice, almond extract, and enough milk (2-3 tablespoons) to achieve a smooth, dip-like consistency.
  8. Glaze the Cookies: Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the frosting, then turn them over and place back on the wire rack. While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle the tops with red decorating sugar to add a festive crunch and shine.
  9. Set and Serve: Allow the frosting to set before serving. Enjoy these charming cookies as a delicious snack or a special dessert.

Notes

  • For best results, make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Ground almonds can be made by finely processing slivered almonds in a food processor.
  • If maraschino cherry juice is not enough for the frosting, supplement with a small amount of milk to adjust consistency.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • These cookies can be frozen after baking and frosting; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Find it online: https://crispcharm.com/christmas-morning-punch-recipe/