# What you need:
→ 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 (to thin jam if necessary)
→ Garnish (optional)
10 - 1/4 cup sliced almonds
# Steps to follow:
01 - Set oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - Beat softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
03 - Mix in egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully combined.
04 - Stir in all-purpose flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
05 - Roll dough into 1-inch diameter balls and space 2 inches apart on prepared sheets.
06 - Press thumb or teaspoon back into center of each ball to create an indentation.
07 - If jam is thick, mix in 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to loosen. Spoon approximately 1/2 teaspoon into each indentation.
08 - Sprinkle sliced almonds around edges of each cookie if desired.
09 - Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
10 - Let rest on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks until completely cooled.