Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the festive spirit right into your kitchen. These cookies are simple to make and combine the rich flavor of buttery shortbread with the sweet and vibrant taste of maraschino cherries. Perfect for busy holiday baking, they can be made ahead of time and customized with decorative sanding sugar for a festive touch.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 120
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 25mg
Why Make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
This Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies recipe is not just about taste; it’s also versatile and allows for customization based on personal preferences. The combination of buttery goodness and the festive pop of cherries makes them a delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter. Plus, they’re low on effort and high on flavor, making them perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings or cozy family nights.
How to Make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Step by Step
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped and drained
Red and green sanding sugar for decoration (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
- If desired, sprinkle sanding sugar over the tops for a festive touch.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
These festive cookies are perfect for enjoying alongside a warm cup of cocoa or a mug of spiced cider. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special dessert. For a holiday touch, serve them on a festive platter, perhaps alongside other holiday treats, to create a delightful cookie spread for family and friends.
How to Store Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
To keep your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, they can be frozen for up to three months. Simply layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, just place them on a baking sheet in a warm oven for a few minutes until they’re nice and soft again.
Expert Tips for Cooking Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
- For more cherry flavor, add a few drops of cherry extract to the dough.
- Experiment with adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Adjust the size of the cookie balls for larger or smaller treats—just be mindful of the baking time.
Delicious Variations of Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
- Add a hint of spice by incorporating cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough.
- Create a citrusy version by adding lemon or orange zest for a fresh twist.
- Try using colored sugar for variety, such as blue or gold for a non-traditional holiday theme.
These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a delicious way to embrace the holiday season. With their festive flavor and ease of preparation, they’re sure to become a favorite in your holiday cookie rotation. Treat your friends and family to a batch today and enjoy the smiles they bring!
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
- If desired, sprinkle sanding sugar over the tops for a festive touch.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
