Irresistible Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

If you’re searching for the perfect holiday treat, look no further than these delightful Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. These cookies combine the buttery richness of classic shortbread with the bright, festive pop of maraschino cherries, creating a cookie that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Bursting with cherry flavor and a tender crumb, they’re perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or gifting to loved ones. Every bite will remind you why these festive favorites have earned a spot on so many cookie trays year after year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Buttery Perfection: Each cookie melts in your mouth with rich, creamy shortbread flavor.
• Festive Cherry Flavor: The maraschino cherries add a cheerful red pop and sweet, fragrant burst in every bite.
• Simple Ingredients: Using pantry staples and maraschino cherries means easy prep with no complicated steps.
• Perfect Texture: These cookies strike the ideal balance between crisp edges and a tender center.
• Wonderful for Gifting: Their charming appearance and festive taste make them excellent for holiday presents.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of simple, quality ingredients that work together to create unforgettable Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Each component plays a vital role in the flavor, texture, and vibrant appearance of the cookies.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for tender yet sturdy shortbread.
• Unsalted Butter: Key for that rich, buttery taste and smooth texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and helps with the cookie’s gentle crunch.
• Maraschino Cherries: Chopped and folded in for bright color and a sweet, festive burst.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the depth of flavor, rounding out the buttery richness.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the buttery notes.

Variations for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

The versatility of Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies means you can easily tailor them to different tastes or dietary needs. Try these fun variations to make the recipe uniquely yours!

• Chocolate Drizzle: Add a finishing drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate for an elegant touch.
• Nutty Upgrade: Fold in chopped toasted almonds or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to ensure everyone can enjoy these festive cookies.
• Orange Zest Twist: Mix in a teaspoon of fresh orange zest for an extra layer of citrus brightness.
• Spiced Variation: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to bring cozy, warming holiday spices into play.

How to Make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all the ingredients; chop your maraschino cherries finely and let them drain on a paper towel to reduce excess moisture, which keeps your cookies from becoming too soft.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy to create a creamy base for the dough.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Salt

Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, which enhance the flavor and balance the sweetness beautifully.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing gently to form a smooth dough without overworking it, preserving the tender shortbread texture.

Step 5: Fold in Chopped Maraschino Cherries

Carefully fold the chopped cherries into the dough, distributing them evenly to ensure a burst of festive flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Shape and Chill

Roll the dough into a log or press it into a pan, then refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up the dough, improving the cookie shape and texture.

Step 7: Slice and Bake

Slice the chilled dough into even rounds or bars and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 18-22 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain pale.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring crisp edges and perfect texture.

Pro Tips for Making Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating allows better slicing and prevents spreading during baking.
• Drain Cherries Well: Excess moisture can turn your cookies soggy, so be sure to pat cherries dry.
• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the dough can develop gluten, resulting in tougher cookies.
• Use Cold Butter if Possible: It helps maintain the crumbly, tender shortbread texture.
• Slice Thin for Crispier Cookies: Thinner slices will bake up crisper, thicker slices stay soft and chewy.

How to Serve Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Garnishes

Dust your cookies lightly with powdered sugar or add a thin drizzle of white chocolate to make them shimmer and entice guests at any holiday party.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of spiced tea, peppermint hot chocolate, or fresh brewed coffee to complement their buttery cherry delight.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies on holiday-themed platters, wrap them in clear cellophane tied with festive ribbons for gifts, or stack into pretty towers with sprigs of fresh rosemary or holly for a beautiful centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze baked cookies in sealed containers or freezer bags for up to three months; thaw at room temperature before serving to enjoy their fresh-baked taste.

Reheating

Warm cookies briefly in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to revive that fresh-from-the-oven softness and aroma.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries can be used but will alter the flavor and moisture content; maraschino cherries provide the ideal sweetness and bright color that complement the shortbread beautifully.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

The classic recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten, but swapping in gluten-free flour blends can create a similar texture for gluten-free diets.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Traditional shortbread calls for butter, but vegan butter substitutes work well and can produce delicious vegan Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container, these cookies are best enjoyed within one week for ideal texture and flavor.

Can I add other flavors to this cookie dough?

Absolutely! Adding citrus zest, spices, or nuts can personalize your cookies while keeping them festive and tasty.

Final Thoughts

Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a wonderful way to bring buttery richness and festive cheer to your holiday table. Easy to make, versatile, and utterly delicious, they’re sure to become a beloved tradition in your kitchen. Give this recipe a try and enjoy sharing every delightful bite with friends and family this season!

Related Posts

• How to Make Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler Fast
• Why Apple Pie Biscuits Are a Must-Try Treat
• Why Pecan Pie Cobbler Wins Every Time

Print