As I unwrapped the delicate twinkle lights and dusty ornaments, a rush of memories flooded in—frosty windows, laughter echoing, and the unmistakable scent of holiday treats wafting through the air. This season, I’m excited to share my festive take on an old classic: Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. These delightful cookies combine a rich, buttery texture with the sweet, vibrant flavor of maraschino cherries, offering a perfect companion for cozy gatherings or heartfelt gifting. Not only are they quick to whip up, but their crumbly goodness and cheerful appearance make them a hit at any holiday gathering. Whether you’re handing them out to neighbors or indulging with a warm cup of cocoa, these treats add a sprinkle of joy to the season. Ready to bake some holiday magic? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Why are these cookies a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet maraschino cherries blend beautifully with a buttery shortbread, creating a taste that’s pure holiday bliss.
Festive Appearance: Their vibrant red accents make these cookies an eye-catching addition to any dessert table, perfect for sharing during the festivities.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, these cookies come together in no time—ideal for busy holiday bakers!
Versatile Treat: Add mini chocolate chips for a delightful twist, or experiment with nuts and zests to personalize your batch. If you’re looking for more cookie ideas, check out my Cheesecake Cookies Salted or Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies for even more delicious surprises!
Perfect for Gifting: Pack these cookies into festive tins for charming holiday gifts or treats for cookie exchanges. Delight your loved ones with something homemade that they’ll treasure!
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Unsalted Butter – ensures a rich, buttery flavor; soften before mixing for the best texture.
- Granulated Sugar – adds sweetness and tenderness; can be swapped with a low-calorie sweetener if desired.
- All-Purpose Flour – provides the cookies’ structure; for gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
- Maraschino Cherries – infuses sweetness and color; make sure to chop finely and drain well to keep the dough from getting too moist.
- Mini Chocolate Chips (optional) – adds a decadent layer of flavor; choose dark or semi-sweet varieties for a richer experience.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is essential for incorporating air, which will give your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies a tender texture.
Step 2: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the creamed butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Take care not to overmix; you’re aiming for a soft dough that is cohesive but not too dense. This careful blending helps ensure your cookies are crumbly and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Step 3: Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in 1 cup of finely chopped maraschino cherries and ½ cup of mini chocolate chips, if desired, using a rubber spatula. Make sure the cherries are well-drained to prevent any excess moisture in the dough. The vibrant red cherries will add a cheerful color that’s perfect for the holidays!
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and ensures your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the chilled dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them set while retaining their crumbly texture. Store your delightful Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance by following the usual steps, covering it tightly, and refrigerating it. For longer storage, freeze the formed cookie balls for up to 2 months. Thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator before baking. This method not only makes the baking process seamless but also ensures that your cookies remain just as delicious and crumbly. When you’re ready to enjoy these festive treats, simply bake them as instructed, and you’ll have delightful, homemade cookies with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Delightful pairings can elevate your festive experience, making every bite a celebration of flavor and warmth.
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Hot Cocoa: The rich, creamy texture perfectly complements the buttery cookies, balancing sweetness with a cozy touch.
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Freshly Brewed Coffee: A bold cup enhances the flavor of the shortbread, creating a delightful contrast to the sweet cherries.
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Holiday Fruit Salad: Bright, citrusy fruits add a refreshing touch that cuts through the richness of the cookies, making for a vibrant plate.
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Eggnog: This classic holiday drink introduces dreamy, spiced notes that marry beautifully with the flavors of the cookies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Adding a scoop on the side turns these cookies into a decadent dessert, perfect for indulging after a festive meal.
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Cheese Platter: Pair with mild cheeses like brie or havarti, where creamy textures balance the cookie’s buttery crispness beautifully.
Each of these options brings its special charm, enhancing your holiday moments with friends and family!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for optimal freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you’d like them to last longer, keep your cookies in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just make sure they’re sealed well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze these delicious cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months.
Reheating: To enjoy these festive treats, reheat frozen cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, just until warmed through.
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these cookies to suit your taste!
- Nutty Delight: Swap in chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that elevates each bite. The combination of buttery shortbread and nuts offers a warm, homey feel.
- Citrus Zing: Add a tablespoon of fresh orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing, zesty kick. The citrus brightens the cookie, making every mouthful feel like a festive celebration!
- Fruit Twist: Replace maraschino cherries with dried cranberries or cherries for a different fruity experience. The chewy texture of dried fruits intertwines beautifully with the crumbly cookies, adding a surprise in every bite.
- Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate a mix of chocolate chips, like white chocolate or dark chocolate, for added decadence. A melty chocolate surprise pairs perfectly with the sweet cherries!
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a cozy, spiced flavor that evokes festive memories of winter. It’s like having a warm hug on a plate!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy. These cookies will still be tender and delightful, perfect for sharing!
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some melted caramel over the cooled cookies for an indulgent finish. This sweet addition ties together the flavors beautifully, making them even more irresistible!
- Gift-Worthy: When packing for gifting, sprinkle some edible glitter or decorative sugar on top before baking for a festive touch. They’ll not only taste great but look stunning in a treat box!
These variations can inspire you to create unique cookies that suit your family’s preferences or even surprise your friends at a holiday gathering. If you’re looking for more holiday cookie ideas, consider trying out some delightful Eggnog Snickerdoodle Cookies or organize a Christmas Cookie Exchange to make the season even sweeter!
Expert Tips for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for easier creaming, resulting in a lighter, fluffier dough.
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Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It’s crucial for achieving the right texture and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
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Proper Mixing: Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the flour; this can lead to tough cookies instead of the tender shortbread you desire.
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Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they can turn golden quickly. A slight under-bake will keep them soft and crumbly.
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Draining Cherries: Ensure maraschino cherries are well-drained and chopped finely to prevent excess moisture in your dough, which can lead to flat cookies.
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! When choosing maraschino cherries, look for brightly colored, plump cherries without any dark spots or a heavy syrup. Drain them well before chopping to avoid excess moisture in your cookie dough, ensuring that your cookies bake to perfection without becoming soggy.
How should I store my cookies to keep them fresh?
To maintain the fabulous flavor and texture of your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like them to stay fresh even longer, pop them in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just be sure they’re well-sealed to lock in their delightful crunch!
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Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your shortbread cookies, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour until solid. Then, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper if stacking. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their warm, crumbly goodness.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, don’t fret! You can add a little more all-purpose flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before shaping can also help firm it up, making it easier to roll into balls without sticking to your hands.
Are these cookies safe for my pets?
Oh, good question! It’s important to be cautious with pets, particularly regarding ingredients like chocolate. While these cookies are a delightful treat for humans, avoid sharing them with your furry friends. The maraschino cherries and chocolate may not be safe for pets, so it’s best if these cookies remain a special holiday indulgence for you and your loved ones.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, indeed! For a gluten-free variation of your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies, replace all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the blend’s mix of ingredients to ensure it works for baking. This swap keeps the flavor and texture delightful while making the recipe accessible for everyone to enjoy!
Delicious Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies to Share
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream the butter and sugar by beating softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Gradually mix in all-purpose flour on low speed until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Gently fold in chopped maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips until incorporated.
- Chill the dough wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), roll chilled dough into balls, and place on a lined baking sheet, flattening each slightly. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Let cookies cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
