Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies will make your holiday season merry and bright. Picture buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies adorned with vibrant, ruby-red cherries that burst with flavor in every bite. delicious cherry cheesecake fluff The aroma of these cookies baking will fill your home with warmth and nostalgia, making it feel like Christmas morning all over again. homemade samoas recipe no bake carrot cake bites.
These delightful treats are perfect for holiday gatherings and gift-giving. Whether you’re nibbling on them by the fireplace or sharing them with loved ones, they bring a festive cheer that’s hard to resist. So, prepare yourself for an amazing flavor experience that will leave your friends and family begging for more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are simple to make, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities
- Their unique cherry flavor adds a fun twist to traditional shortbread
- The bright colors make these cookies a showstopper on any dessert table
- Ideal for holiday parties or as thoughtful gifts for friends and family
I once brought these cookies to a holiday party, and people were sneaking back for seconds—let’s just say they disappeared faster than my New Year’s resolutions!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easy creaming and a light texture in the cookies.
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Granulated Sugar: Sweeten the deal! This is essential for that lovely sweetness in your shortbread.
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All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our cookies; sifted for a lighter cookie.
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Maraschino Cherries: Choose bright red cherries packed in syrup; they add color and a sweet punch.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash of this extract elevates the flavor profile; go for pure vanilla if possible.
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Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness beautifully; don’t skip it!
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Powdered Sugar (for dusting): Optional but highly recommended to give these beauties a festive finish. high protein key lime yogurt bark.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking from the get-go.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together your softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. You want it airy!
Add Flour and Salt: Gradually mix in all-purpose flour along with salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want tender cookies here.
Incorporate Cherries and Vanilla: Gently fold chopped maraschino cherries and vanilla extract into the dough. The dough should be somewhat sticky but manageable.
Scoop and Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out dough onto lined baking sheets. Leave space between each cookie as they spread while baking.
Bake Until Golden Edges Appear: Place your trays in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as ovens vary!
Let your cookies cool on wire racks before dusting them with powdered sugar—this gives them an extra touch of holiday magic.
Enjoy every bite of these Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies! They blend nostalgic flavors with festive charm perfectly. Happy baking! For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Lavender Cookies recipe.
You Must Know
- These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are buttery, sweet, and delightfully festive
- The cherries add a pop of color and a burst of flavor, making them perfect for holiday gatherings
- Don’t be surprised if they disappear faster than you can say “Merry Christmas!”
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming butter and sugar until fluffy, then mix in flour and cherries for a delightful dough. Chilling the dough before baking prevents spreading, ensuring your cookies keep their shape.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap maraschino cherries for dried cranberries or chocolate chips for a unique twist. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top enhances the sweetness beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for just a few seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect shortbread cookies, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy blending
- Avoid overmixing the dough; this keeps the cookies tender
- Always chill your dough before baking to maintain shape and texture
Baking these Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies has become a cherished tradition in my family. The joy on everyone’s faces as they savor each bite makes every effort worthwhile.
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Fresh cherries can work but may alter the texture and moisture content of your cookies.
How long should I chill the cookie dough?
Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while baking.
What’s the best way to decorate these cookies?
Consider drizzling melted white chocolate or adding colored sprinkles for extra festive flair!
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Delight in the festive spirit with these Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies! Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are beautifully adorned with vibrant maraschino cherries, creating a perfect addition to your holiday festivities. These treats not only bring warmth and nostalgia to your home but also make excellent gifts for friends and family. Enjoy sharing these sweet delights by the fireplace or at holiday gatherings!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 1 cup maraschino cherries (chopped, drained)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined.
- Fold in chopped maraschino cherries and vanilla extract until incorporated.
- Scoop dough onto lined baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool on wire racks and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 109
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 34mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 21mg
