Maraschino Cherry Almond Cookies

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 2/3 cup sifted confectioners' sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract
• 2 eggs, at room temperature
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup chopped drained maraschino cherries
• Royal Icing:
• 2 egg whites
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups sifted confectioners' sugar