Name: Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened) (For the best texture, ensure butter is softened.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Can be swapped with a low-calorie sweetener if desired.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.); 1 cup Maraschino Cherries (finely chopped and well-drained) (Ensure they are finely chopped and drained well to avoid excess moisture.); 0.5 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (Use dark or semi-sweet varieties or substitute with chopped nuts.)

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The Perfect Treat for the Holidays

The holiday season is filled with joyful moments, and what better way to celebrate than with homemade cookies? These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful blend of buttery richness and festive flavor that make them the perfect treat for sharing with family and friends. With vibrant pops of maraschino cherry and a hint of chocolate, these cookies will not only sweeten your gatherings but also create cherished memories around the kitchen table.

Why you’ll love this dish

These cookies aren’t just delicious; they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a great option for busy holiday schedules. The beautiful red cherries bring a festive flair to the classic shortbread cookie, which means they are not only pleasing to the palate but also a visual treat on any dessert platter. Additionally, you can easily adapt the ingredients to fit your dietary needs with options for low-calorie sweeteners and gluten-free flour.

"I made these cookies for my Christmas party, and they were a hit! Everyone loved the combination of cherry and chocolate. I’ll definitely be making them again!" – A Happy Baker

Preparing Delicious Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies to Share

Creating these delightful cookies is a simple and enjoyable process. In just a few steps, you will have a batch of colorful, flavorful cookies ready to impress. First, gather your ingredients, then follow the step-by-step instructions to ensure perfect results every time. You’ll be enjoying the yummy aroma wafting through your kitchen in no time!

What you’ll need

Before you begin, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened before mixing for the best texture)
1 cup Granulated Sugar (can be swapped with a low-calorie sweetener if desired)
2 cups All-Purpose Flour (use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option)
1 cup Maraschino Cherries (finely chopped and well-drained)
0.5 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (optional, use dark or semi-sweet varieties)

Feel free to substitute the mini chocolate chips with chopped nuts or leave them out completely to highlight the cherries.

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Gradually add in the flour, mixing on low speed until just combined.
Fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries and, if desired, the mini chocolate chips.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a fork or your fingers for an even bake.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Best ways to enjoy it

These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies can be enjoyed on their own or with a delightful beverage. Pair them with a hot cup of cocoa or a glass of milk for a cozy treat. For an extra festive touch, serve them on a holiday-themed platter alongside other treats like peppermint bark or gingerbread men.

How to store & freeze

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you find yourself with leftover cookies, they can also be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in a freezer-safe container. For best results, thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!

Tricks for success

Butter Softening: Always use softened butter for the perfect texture. Leave it out at room temperature for about an hour before you start baking.
Chop Cherries Well: Make sure to finely chop and drain the maraschino cherries well to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
Mixing Gently: When folding in the cherries and chocolate chips, do so gently to avoid breaking apart the cherries.

Creative twists

Looking to mix things up? Here are some fun variations to try:

Coconut Cherry: Add shredded coconut to the batter for an extra tropical flavor.
Spiced Version: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spiced cookie.
Nutty Delight: Swap the chocolate chips for crushed walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

Your questions answered

How long do these cookies take to prepare?

The total prep time for these cookies is about 20 minutes, followed by a baking time of 12-15 minutes. Quick and easy, perfect for busy holiday schedules!

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Fresh cherries can work, but be sure to pit and finely chop them. Keep in mind they will introduce more moisture, so make sure to reduce the quantity slightly.

How long can I store these cookies?

These cookies can be stored at room temperature for up to one week in an airtight container, or frozen for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-protected from freezer burn.

Now that you have everything you need to create these scrumptious Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies, it’s time to start baking! Enjoy the process and share the love and joy that comes with homemade treats during the holiday season. Happy baking!