Some cookies are made for celebration, and Easy Cherry Bell Cookies bring the perfect festive flair to any occasion. With their buttery shortbread base, sweet cherry centers, and light almond glaze, these cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.

The first time I made these, it was during the holiday season when I wanted something cheerful yet simple. The cherry in the center reminded me of a little bell, ringing in joy with every bite. These cookies have since become a tradition, brightening up dessert tables and cookie exchanges with their charm.

What I love most is how versatile they are. While perfect for the holidays, they’re just as fitting for Valentine’s Day, spring gatherings, or any day that calls for a little sweetness. Let’s bake these Easy Cherry Bell Cookies and spread some cheer one bite at a time.

The Easy Cherry Bell Cookies are buttery, crumbly cookies topped with maraschino cherries and finished with a light almond glaze. These cookies are simple to make and perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any occasion.

With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, they’re a hit at parties, holiday celebrations, or as a charming gift.

An Exciting Story:

The first time I served these Easy Cherry Bell Cookies, they were gone before I could take a second bite. My husband loved their buttery texture, and my kids adored the sweet cherry centers. They’ve since become a family favorite, especially during the holidays, where they add a pop of color to our cookie tray.

Why These Easy Cherry Bell Cookies?

• Festive and Cheerful: Perfect for holidays, parties, and celebrations.
• Simple and Elegant: A shortbread base with a sweet cherry twist.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
• Customizable: Swap flavors or colors to suit any theme.
• Perfect for Gifting: Beautiful and delicious, they’re great for cookie exchanges or homemade gifts.

What You Need for Easy Cherry Bell Cookies

• For the Cookies:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp almond extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 15-20 maraschino cherries, halved
• For the Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tbsp milk
  • ½ tsp almond extract

How to Make Easy Cherry Bell Cookies

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
   • Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. The dough will be soft but not sticky.
2. Shape the Cookies:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small indentation in the center of each ball.
3. Add the Cherries:
   • Place a maraschino cherry half into the indentation of each cookie.
4. Bake:
   • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Make the Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or sugar if needed.
6. Decorate the Cookies:
   • Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Tips for Easy Cherry Bell Cookies

1. Drain the Cherries Well: Pat the maraschino cherries dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cookies.
2. Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before shaping.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Use Other Extracts: Swap almond extract for lemon or orange extract for a citrus twist.
• Try Different Toppings: Replace cherries with candied fruit, chocolate kisses, or nuts.
• Color the Glaze: Add a drop of food coloring to match your theme or occasion.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Use unsalted butter alternatives like plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
• Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a slightly healthier choice.
• Opt for natural maraschino cherries or unsweetened dried cherries.

Closing for Easy Cherry Bell Cookies:

And there you have it—Easy Cherry Bell Cookies that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just indulging in a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to bring joy to any occasion. Let us know how yours turn out, and don’t forget to check out more of our cheerful cookie recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Cherry Bell Cookies

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

How do I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze baked cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of maraschino cherries?
Try candied cherries, dried cranberries, or fresh raspberries.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough before baking and avoid over-creaming the butter.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles easily for larger batches.

How do I ensure the glaze sets quickly?
Place the cookies in the fridge for 10 minutes after glazing.

What pairs well with these cookies?
Serve with tea, coffee, or hot cocoa for a delightful treat.

Can I add sprinkles to the glaze?
Yes, sprinkle immediately after glazing for a festive touch.

Why is my dough too crumbly?
Add a teaspoon of milk at a time until the dough comes together.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to replace all-purpose flour.

What’s a creative serving idea?
Arrange the cookies on a tiered dessert tray with other holiday treats for a stunning display.

Easy Cherry Bell Cookies

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: Dessert, Snacks

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ tsp almond extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ tsp salt

• 15-20 maraschino cherries, halved

• For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1-2 tbsp milk

• ½ tsp almond extract

Directions

• Prepare the Dough:
• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
• Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. The dough will be soft but not sticky.
• Shape the Cookies:
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small indentation in the center of each ball.
• Add the Cherries:
• Place a maraschino cherry half into the indentation of each cookie.
• Bake:
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Make the Glaze:
• In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or sugar if needed.
• Decorate the Cookies:
• Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies. Allow the glaze to set before serving.