# List of Ingredients:
→ Cookies
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 needed
→ Garnish (optional)
10 - 1/4 cup sliced almonds
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 - Set oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - Beat butter and sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy.
03 - Incorporate egg yolk, vanilla, and almond extracts until evenly combined.
04 - Stir in flour and salt until a soft dough forms without overmixing.
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 each ball’s center to make a small indentation.
07 - If jam is thick, loosen with 1 to 2 tablespoons of water, then spoon about 1/2 teaspoon into each well.
08 - Optional: sprinkle sliced almonds around cookie edges for texture and flavor.
09 - Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
10 - Let cookies rest on baking sheets for 5 minutes then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
