In a large bowl combine the yeast, 1 teaspoon sugar, and warm water. Let it 5 minutes while you continue the recipe.

In a small saucepan combine the milk and butter over medium heat. Cook until the butter has melted.

Remove from heat and stir in sugar, salt, and allspice. Mix well.

Add in the eggs and yeast mixture and mix well to combine.

Add the flour a cup at a time, mixing after each addition, until a dough has formed.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let sit 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Place the dough onto a floured surface and cut in half. Roll each dough half into a 36 inch long rope.

Form the rope into a large pretzel and place on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise 1-2 hours.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Bake the pretzels for 20 minutes.

Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.

To make the glaze combine the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract in a small bowl. Pour over top of the pretzel or spread it on with a knife. It should be thick.

Immediately sprinkle with sprinkles and sliced almonds if using. Push cherries into the frosting.

Cut into pieces and serve.