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Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Delightfully festive cookies combining buttery shortbread and sweet maraschino cherries, perfect for holiday baking.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Main 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
Decoration (optional)
  • Red and green sanding sugar for decoration

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until combined.
  6. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
Baking
  1. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
  2. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
  3. If desired, sprinkle sanding sugar over the tops for a festive touch.
  4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  5. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat by placing on a baking sheet in a warm oven for a few minutes.