As I stood in my kitchen, the warm scent of freshly baked cookies wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to cozy holiday memories. These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, blending buttery richness with the sweet-tart charm of maraschino cherries. With their vibrant red hue, they add a festive flair that’s perfect for your holiday gatherings. Not only are they a breeze to make, but these cookies also make a thoughtful gift or a special treat to share with friends and family. Plus, you can take them up a notch by adding mini chocolate chips for an extra layer of indulgence! Ready to fill your home with the joy of baking? Let’s dive into this festive recipe!
Why Are These Cookies a Holiday Must?
Irresistible sweetness: The combination of sweet maraschino cherries and rich, buttery shortbread creates a taste sensation that embodies the essence of the holiday season.
Festive appearance: Their vibrant red color brings cheer to any cookie platter, making them the star of your holiday gatherings.
Quick and easy: With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delightful cookies in no time—perfect for bakers of any skill level!
Versatile options: Feeling adventurous? Feel free to swap the cherries for dried fruits or add mini chocolate chips for a luscious chocolate twist. You can also check out my ideas for Zebra Cookies Discover for more festive baking inspiration.
Gift-worthy treats: Packaged beautifully, these cookies make for a thoughtful homemade gift, spreading seasonal joy to family and friends.
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
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For the Cookies
• Unsalted Butter – Make sure it’s softened for even mixing to achieve that rich, buttery flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetening and structure; consider coconut sugar for a healthier choice.
• All-Purpose Flour – The base of the cookies; a gluten-free blend works perfectly too!
• Chopped Maraschino Cherries – Adds festive color and sweetness; drain well to avoid any extra moisture.
• Vanilla Extract – Just a splash enhances flavor; swap with almond extract for a unique twist.
• Mini Chocolate Chips (optional) – Adds a delightful chocolatey richness; feel free to leave them out if you prefer a classic. -
Optional Topping
• White Chocolate Drizzle – For an extra sweet touch and beautiful decoration on your cookies.
These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for your holiday celebrations!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and ½ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix to combine. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture appears pale and creamy, laying a perfect foundation for your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough starts to form. This should take about 2-3 minutes; ensure there are no dry pockets of flour left. Once combined, gently fold in 1 cup of chopped maraschino cherries and, if you choose, ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for an extra treat.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Using a small cookie scoop or two spoons, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers to create cookie disks. Aim for a uniform thickness for even baking, as you shape these delightful Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. They should be lightly golden around the edges while remaining soft in the center. Keep an eye on them, as you want the cookies to appear just set but not overbaked, as this will ensure a tender texture.
Step 5: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This rest time helps them firm up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The delightful aroma of your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies will fill your kitchen as they cool, inviting everyone to enjoy them!
Expert Tips for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
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Don’t Skip the Chill: Chilling your dough for 30 minutes prevents spreading, resulting in beautifully shaped Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies.
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Perfect Baking Time: Watch your cookies closely; removing them as soon as they are just set ensures they remain soft and don’t harden too much while cooling.
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Quality Counts: Opt for high-quality unsalted butter, as this will elevate the flavor and give your cookies a richer texture.
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Well-Drained Cherries: Thoroughly draining the maraschino cherries is crucial. Excess moisture can lead to a soggy cookie, so ensure they’re well-dried before mixing in.
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Try Different Extracts: Experimenting with vanilla or almond extract can enhance the flavor profile of your cookies. Each gives a unique touch to your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend their shelf life, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to 2 weeks. Remember to seal them well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies warm, simply reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will refresh their delicate, crumbly texture.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the festive season without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix the dough as directed and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, slice the chilled or frozen dough into rounds and place them on your baking sheet, following the baking instructions as usual. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies that are just as delicious, saving you precious time during the holiday hustle!
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Variations
Feel free to put your own twist on these festive cookies and explore delightful alternatives that will make them even more special!
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Dried Fruit Swap: Substitute maraschino cherries with dried cranberries or apricots for a different flavor profile. The chewy texture complements the shortbread beautifully.
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Nutty Add-In: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts to add a delightful crunch. Their rich flavor enhances the cookies, creating a lovely contrast with the buttery base.
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White Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate these cookies by drizzling melted white chocolate over the tops after cooling. This sweetness adds an elegant touch that’s perfect for holiday gifting.
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Coconut Twist: Fold in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flair. This unexpected twist pairs wonderfully with the cherry flavor and adds a delightful texture.
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Cinnamon Kick: Sprinkle a teaspoon of cinnamon into the dough for a warm, spicy undertone. It adds a comforting aroma that’ll evoke memories of holiday baking.
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Chocolate Chip Delight: Add mini chocolate chips for a luscious chocolatey richness. This variation transforms the cookies into a decadent treat that’s sure to impress.
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Zesty Lemon Flavor: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright, refreshing twist. The citrus balances the sweetness of the cherries and invigorates the cookie’s flavor.
For more festive inspirations, check out my delightful ideas for Cream Pie Cookies or the fun textures of Marshmallow Swirl Cookies. Happy baking!
What to Serve with Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Indulging in freshly baked cookies is just the beginning—let’s curate the perfect meal experience to elevate your holiday gatherings.
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Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolatey flavors of a warm mug of cocoa beautifully complement the sweetness of the cherry cookies, making for a cozy pairing.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like oranges and berries provide a refreshing contrast to the buttery shortbread, enhancing the festive spirit of your cookie spread.
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Spiced Tea: Enjoying a cup of spiced chai adds warm, aromatic notes that balance the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite more delightful.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds an indulgent touch, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures alongside your cookies.
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Cheese Platter: Include a selection of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese that offer a savory contrast, creating a unique taste experience.
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Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The sweet-salty crunch of pretzels complements the rich shortbread perfectly, making for an irresistible bite-sized treat.
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Holiday Eggnog: Serve your cookies with a glass of creamy, spiced eggnog for a classic holiday twist that feels indulgent and festive.
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Bourbon Hot Toddy: For adults, a warming hot toddy adds a cozy drink option that pairs surprisingly well with the comforting flavors of the cookies.
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Classic Sugar Cookies: Embrace the festive spirit by stacking your maraschino cherry shortbread cookies with classic sugar cookies for a delightful cookie platter.
With these mouth-watering options, your celebration will surely be the talk of the season!
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best maraschino cherries for the cookies?
Absolutely! Look for maraschino cherries that are bright in color and have no dark spots. The best varieties are well-drained and stored in a good-quality syrup. Avoid overly soggy cherries, as they can add excess moisture to your cookies.
How long can I store Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies?
You can store these delicious cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, making sure they are well-sealed to keep their delightful texture.
Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies! Here’s how: First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper, and they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too soft?
If your dough is too soft to shape, don’t worry! You can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to firm it up. This chilling process helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring that your cookies maintain their adorable shape. Just remember, the butter should be softened, not melted, to achieve the right consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Indeed! If you’re making these cookies for someone with gluten sensitivities, you can opt for a gluten-free flour blend. For sugar alternatives, consider using coconut sugar or other sweeteners that suit your dietary needs. If you have pets, remember that chocolate can be harmful to them, so it’s best to omit the mini chocolate chips if you’re sharing the cookies with furry friends!
Can I make the dough in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the cookie dough a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. If you want to freeze the dough, shape it into balls and freeze them individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a container. When you’re ready to bake, add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time since the dough will be frozen.
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough starts to form.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, flattening each slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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