In a bowl, break almond paste up into small pieces. Add egg whites, almond extract, and lemon zest. Beat until mixture is smooth and well blended. Slowly add cocoa and sugar, continually beating until a soft dough forms.
Transfer the batter to a large pastry bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe batter in small 1" mounds onto cookie sheets about 2-1/2" apart. Sprinkle heavily with powdered sugar. Let stand 20 minutes. Garnish each with candied red cherry. Bake 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
Place a tea towel on the counter top. Slide the slide the parchment paper, with the cookies still on top to the towel.
Let cool before removing from the parchment paper.