Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Christmas Cookie Delight
There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies during the holiday season, and these Delicious Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are certainly a treat that embodies that spirit. With the sweet, vibrant flavor of maraschino cherries, these cookies not only bake up beautifully but also add a festive touch to your dessert table. Whether you’re sharing them at a family gathering or delivering them as gifts, their delightful taste and cheerful color are sure to brighten anyone’s holiday.
Reasons to try it
Why settle for ordinary cookies when you can bring joy to your holiday celebrations with these delightful shortbread cookies? They’re simple to make, budget-friendly, and adored by kids and adults alike. The buttery texture of shortbread melds perfectly with the sweet and tangy cherries, creating a nostalgic treat that’s hard to resist. Perfect for cookie swaps, Christmas parties, or just to enjoy with a warm cup of cocoa, these cookies are a holiday staple that you’ll want to add to your recipe collection.
"These cookies are pure bliss! The maraschino cherry bits are a delicious surprise in every bite. I can’t keep them in the house—everyone asks for more!" – Jennifer S.
How this recipe comes together
Before diving into the kitchen, let’s take a quick look at the process. This cookie recipe is a breeze to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and simple steps. You’ll start by creaming butter and sugar until smooth, then gradually mix in the dry ingredients. The star of the show—maraschino cherries—will come next, adding flavor and a pop of color. Finally, shape the dough into bite-sized portions, bake, and voila! You’ll have festive cookies ready to enjoy.
What you’ll need
To whip up these Delicious Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened to room temperature for the best texture)
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar (or a low-calorie sweetener if preferred)
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option)
- 1 cup Maraschino Cherries (finely chopped and well-drained to avoid excess moisture)
- 0.5 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (optional; dark or semi-sweet varieties work wonderfully)
Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for a seamless baking experience!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add flour: Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined.
- Incorporate cherries and chocolate: Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips, if using.
- Shape the cookies: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
When serving these festive cookies, consider a creative presentation to make them shine. Stack them on a decorative holiday plate, or arrange them in a cookie jar for guests to help themselves. Pairing them with a warm cup of cocoa or a glass of milk enhances the experience. These cookies also make a fantastic gift when packaged in festive tins—perfect for neighbors and friends!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your delicious shortbread cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Layer the cookies with parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy again.
Practical cooking tips
For the best results when making these cookies, ensure that your butter is at room temperature—it really helps achieve that creamy texture needed for shortbread. If you find the dough too sticky, you can chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes before shaping. Always drain the maraschino cherries well to avoid excess liquid, which can affect the cookie texture.
Creative twists
Want to switch things up? Experiment with flavor variations by adding a splash of almond extract for a nice nutty depth. You can replace maraschino cherries with dried cranberries or even chopped pecans for a different flavor profile. For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies or adding a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare these cookies?
Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and baking them takes another 12-15 minutes, making this recipe perfect for a quick holiday treat.
Can I substitute the maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries or even chopped fresh cherries can work well if you prefer a less sweet option.
Are these cookies suitable for storing in the freezer?
Yes, these cookies freeze beautifully! Just be sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
What can I do if my dough is too soft?
If your dough feels too soft and difficult to shape, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes. This will help firm it up for an easier baking process.
With these tips and the detailed recipe, you’re all set to create some lovely holiday memories with your delicious Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Enjoy the festive season!
Delicious Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips, if using.
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
