The sweet aroma of Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm hug of nostalgia and joy. With each buttery bite, the delightful crunch gives way to a melt-in-your-mouth experience that screams holiday cheer.
These cookies are not just treats; they are edible memories waiting to happen. Picture the laughter of family gathered around the kitchen, the vibrant red cherries peeking through a sea of golden shortbread, making them a perfect festive addition to any holiday gathering.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients
- Their delightful flavor profile combines buttery richness with sweet cherry goodness
- The cheerful colors make them visually appealing on any dessert table
- Versatile enough for gifting or enjoying by yourself with a cup of hot cocoa
Every December, my family has an unofficial contest to see who can bake the best Christmas cookies. I still remember the year I whipped up these beauties; my cousin’s eyes nearly popped out of her head when she took her first bite – a memory that still makes me chuckle.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for rich flavor; it’s essential in creating that signature shortbread texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the buttery goodness without overwhelming your taste buds.
- All-Purpose Flour: This provides structure; sift it well for light, tender cookies.
- Maraschino Cherries: Drain and chop them finely for bursts of flavor; they add a festive touch and lovely color.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the overall flavor profile and adds warmth to each bite.
- Salt: A pinch balances out the sweetness and brings out the flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Prepare Your Dough: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and pale, about 3-5 minutes.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in all-purpose flour and pinch of salt until combined. The dough should be soft yet slightly crumbly – perfect for shaping!
Add Flavorful Cherries: Gently fold in chopped Maraschino cherries and vanilla extract. Take care not to overmix; you want those cherry bits evenly distributed but intact for delightful bursts of flavor.
Shape and Chill: Roll dough into small balls about one inch in diameter and place them on ungreased baking sheets. Chill for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure they hold their shape.
Bake Until Golden: Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Keep an eye out; you want them just cooked through but not too dark!
Cool and Enjoy: Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. If desired, dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving for an extra festive touch.
And just like that, you’ve created Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies that will have everyone asking for seconds!
You Must Know
- Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are the perfect festive treat; they blend buttery goodness with sweet cherry bursts
- Their vibrant red color brightens any holiday platter, making them a must-have for cookie exchanges and family gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy, then gradually mix in flour and cherries. This sequence ensures even distribution of flavors and textures.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap Maraschino cherries for dried cranberries or chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. A sprinkle of sea salt can elevate the sweetness beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For best results, enjoy them fresh but they can be frozen for longer storage.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your cookies are perfectly tender, avoid overmixing the dough after adding flour
- Chilling the dough before baking helps maintain their shape
- Lastly, always taste test a cherry before adding it; you want the juiciest ones!
Creating these Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen filled with laughter and flour dust—those were magical moments!
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of Maraschino cherries?
Yes, but fresh cherries will alter texture and moisture; adjust baking time accordingly.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a safe option.
Can I add nuts to my Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with these Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Their buttery texture, combined with sweet cherry bursts, creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Easy to make and visually stunning, these cookies will fill your home with warmth and cheer. Whether you’re baking for family or gifting a batch, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and sweet memories.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, finely chopped (drained)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined; the dough should be soft yet slightly crumbly.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and vanilla extract gently.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
- Allow cooling on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
