Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Christmas Cookies
Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Christmas Cookies! These delightful treats bring a sweet and festive touch to any holiday gathering. With their buttery base, soft texture, and bursts of cherry flavor, they are an enchanting addition to your holiday cookie platter. Plus, they are super easy to make!
What You’ll Need for Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Christmas Cookies
To whip up these delicious cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (227g) softened salted butter
- 1/2 cup (65g) powdered sugar
- 1/4 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 tablespoon almond extract
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (110g) diced maraschino cherries
- 2/3 cup (120g) chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup (30g) nuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookie Recipe
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Prepare the Cherries: Start by draining your maraschino cherries. Place them on a few sheets of paper towel to soak up most of the cherry juice. Once they’re nice and dry, dice them into small pieces.
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Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Use a mixer or a wooden spoon to blend everything together until it’s creamy and smooth.
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Incorporate the Flour: Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, mixing until the dough starts to come together.
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Add the Cherries and Chocolate: Gently fold in the diced maraschino cherries and chocolate chips. If you’re using nuts, now’s the time to add them in as well!
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Knead the Dough: Take the dough and knead it in your hands for a minute to eliminate any air bubbles. Shape it into a log shape, about 2 inches in diameter.
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Chill the Dough: Wrap your log of dough in Saran Wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight. This will help the flavors meld together and make slicing easier.
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Preheat Oven: The next day, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Slice and Bake: Unwrap your chilled dough and slice it into thick rounds (about 1/2 inch thick). Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the oven for about 12-14 minutes, or until they are a lovely golden brown.
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Let Cool and ENJOY: Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Then, dig in!
How to Serve Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, and they look beautiful on a serving plate. Here are some ideas for serving:
- Platter Presentation: Arrange your cookies on a festive platter and sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch.
- Pair with Hot Beverages: Serve alongside a nice cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or tea to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
- Gift Idea: Package them in a clear bag with a decorative ribbon for a homemade gift that friends and family will adore!
Expert Tips for Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
- Chill Your Dough Longer: For the best flavor and texture, consider chilling your dough for longer than overnight. A couple of days is even better!
- Swap Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different extracts, such as coconut or hazelnut, to change the flavor profile of your cookies.
- Add a Drizzle: For extra sweetness, drizzle some melted chocolate over the cooled cookies before serving.
Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used! However, make sure they are pitted and diced into small pieces, and they should be mixed in with a touch of sugar to maintain sweetness.
2. How should I store the cookies?
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
3. Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough before baking or freeze the baked cookies. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
These Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Christmas Cookies are sure to become a festive favorite in your home! With their delightful flavors and buttery texture, you’ll want to make a double batch. Enjoy baking, sharing, and indulging in these sweet treats this holiday season!
Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Christmas Cookies
Ingredients
Cookie Base
- 1 cup softened salted butter Ensure it's softened for easy mixing.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar For sweetness and texture.
- 1/4 tablespoon vanilla extract Adds flavor.
- 1/4 tablespoon almond extract Gives an additional layer of flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Main ingredient for the cookie base.
Add-ins
- 3/4 cup diced maraschino cherries Drain and dry them before dicing.
- 2/3 cup chocolate chips Adds sweetness and richness.
- 1/4 cup nuts Optional for added crunch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Drain your maraschino cherries and place them on paper towel to soak up the juice. Dice them into small pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough starts to form.
- Gently fold in the diced cherries, chocolate chips, and optional nuts.
- Knead the dough in your hands for a minute to eliminate air bubbles, then shape into a log about 2 inches in diameter.
- Wrap the log in Saran Wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unwrap the dough and slice it into rounds about 1/2 inch thick. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the oven for 12-14 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
