These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday cookie tray. With their bright red cherries, these cookies bring a pop of color and a sweet, buttery flavor that will make them a favorite for any Christmas gathering. The optional addition of mini chocolate chips makes these cookies even more irresistible, adding a touch of richness to each bite.
The Perfect Holiday Cookie
Shortbread cookies are known for their rich, buttery texture, and this version adds the festive flair of chopped maraschino cherries. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a holiday party, these cookies are sure to impress. The delicate crumbly texture and the sweetness of the cherries create a delightful balance, making them a holiday classic.
- Preparation time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling time)
- Cooking time: 14-16 minutes
- Serving: Makes about 24 cookies
- Equipment: Mixing bowl, baking sheets, wire racks
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe:
This recipe is easy to follow and creates beautifully festive cookies that are perfect for gifting or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This creates the buttery base of your shortbread.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with a subtle sweet flavor.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the delicate texture of the shortbread.
- Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and, if desired, the mini chocolate chips. The cherries will add sweetness and color, while the chocolate chips provide a delicious extra layer of flavor.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps firm the dough, making it easier to shape and enhancing the cookie’s texture.
- Preheat and Shape: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets. Slightly flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 14-16 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as shortbread should remain tender.
- Cool and Dust: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool slightly. While still warm, dust the tops with powdered sugar for a sweet, festive finish.
Festive and Delicious
These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are the perfect blend of buttery, sweet, and fruity flavors. Their festive appearance makes them a great addition to any holiday cookie platter, and their delicate texture will have everyone reaching for more. Enjoy them with your favorite holiday beverages or package them up as a gift for friends and family!
