Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Bring a touch of festive cheer to your holiday table with these delightful Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. These cookies combine the sweet, tangy flavor of maraschino cherries with the classic richness of shortbread, creating a treat that’s as festive as it is delicious. With optional chocolate chips for an extra bit of indulgence, these cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite, perfect for parties, gifts, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa.

This recipe is not only easy to follow but also fun to make, allowing you to add a personal touch to your holiday baking. Let’s get started and fill your home with the sweet aroma of baking cookies!

Festive and Sweet: The Perfect Holiday Cookie Recipe

These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are not just tasty but also beautifully festive. Here’s how to make sure they come out perfectly crumbly and melt-in-your-mouth every time.

Expert Tips for Perfect Shortbread Cookies:

1. Softened Butter: Start with butter that’s softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth dough.
2. Gentle Mixing: Mix the dough just until the flour is incorporated to avoid overworking, which can make the cookies tough.
3. Uniform Size: Roll the dough into even balls to ensure consistent baking.
4. Cooling on the Sheet: Let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet to set before moving them, which helps prevent breaking.
5. Dusting Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and makes these cookies look snow-dusted and festive.

Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
• Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
• Equipment: Baking sheet, parchment paper, mixing bowl

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:

1. Prep for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate the vanilla extract.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined.
4. Fold in Cherries and Chips: Gently fold in the maraschino cherries and chocolate chips, if using.
5. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared sheet.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden.
7. Cool and Dust: Let cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar.

Ready to Delight!

Enjoy these Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies as they bring a burst of joy and flavor to your holiday celebrations. Each cookie, with its bright cherry pieces and sweet dusting of sugar, is a small gift of happiness. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment by the tree, these cookies are sure to enhance the festive spirit. Happy baking and happy holidays!

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