# What You’ll Need:
→ Cookie Dough
01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 2/3 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 large egg yolk
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract
06 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Filling
08 - 1/2 cup cherry jam
09 - 1 to 2 tablespoons water, if jam is very thick
→ Garnish (optional)
10 - 1/4 cup sliced almonds
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
03 - Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully combined.
04 - Stir in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
05 - Roll dough into 1-inch balls and space them 2 inches apart on the baking sheets.
06 - Press your thumb or the back of a teaspoon into the center of each dough ball to make a well.
07 - If the cherry jam is thick, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons water to loosen it.
08 - Fill each well with about 1/2 teaspoon of cherry jam.
09 - Sprinkle sliced almonds around the edges of the cookies, if desired.
10 - Bake cookies for 13 to 15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
11 - Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
