Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Name: Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Delight You!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Posted on August 18, 2025

DESSERT

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Introduction to Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself dreaming of festive treats that bring joy to my family. That’s where these Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies come in! They’re not just cookies; they’re little bites of happiness that can brighten even the busiest of days. With their buttery texture and sweet cherry bursts, they’re perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying with a warm cup of tea. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making them an ideal solution for those last-minute holiday gatherings. Trust me, these cookies will become a cherished tradition in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. They come together in just 35 minutes, making them a perfect choice for busy moms and professionals. The buttery richness paired with the sweet, tangy cherries creates a taste that’s simply irresistible. Plus, they’re versatile enough to impress guests or satisfy your family’s sweet tooth. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how quickly they disappear!

Ingredients for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter: This is the star of the show, providing that rich, creamy texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Powdered sugar: This sweetener gives the cookies a melt-in-your-mouth quality. It blends smoothly with the butter, creating a light texture.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of any cookie, it gives structure. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
Maraschino cherries: These vibrant little gems add a pop of color and a sweet-tart flavor that’s perfect for the holidays. Feel free to chop them finely or leave them in larger pieces for a more dramatic effect.
Vanilla extract: This classic flavor enhances the overall taste, making the cookies feel warm and inviting.
Almond extract: A little goes a long way! It adds a lovely nutty aroma that complements the cherries perfectly.

For those who want to get creative, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra festive touch. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using dried fruits or nuts instead of maraschino cherries. The exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and take to the kitchen!

How to Make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is crucial for baking these cookies perfectly. It ensures that the cookies start cooking immediately, giving them that lovely golden edge. A properly heated oven helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all crave in shortbread cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the dough, making your cookies tender and airy. Aim for a pale, creamy consistency, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes of mixing. Trust me, this is where the magic begins!

Step 3: Add Extracts

Next, mix in the vanilla and almond extracts. These extracts are the secret weapons in your cookie arsenal! They enhance the flavor profile, making each bite feel like a warm hug. The combination of these extracts creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, making it feel like the holidays.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to be soft and crumbly. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the flour in, ensuring everything is well incorporated without losing that airy texture.

Step 5: Fold in Maraschino Cherries

Now it’s time to fold in those vibrant maraschino cherries. Gently incorporate them into the dough using a spatula. Folding helps maintain the cherries’ shape and texture, ensuring they don’t get crushed. You want those little bursts of cherry goodness in every bite!

Step 6: Shape and Prepare for Baking

Shape the dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass. This step not only helps them bake evenly but also gives them that classic shortbread look. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie for spreading!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you want the edges to be lightly golden while the centers remain soft. A good tip is to check them a minute or two before the timer goes off. You’ll know they’re done when they smell heavenly!

Step 8: Cool and Store

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps them firm up. Store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week. Trust me, they won’t last that long!

Tips for Success

Always use softened butter for easy mixing and a creamy texture.
Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s key for even baking.
Measure your flour correctly—spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off.
For a festive twist, consider adding a sprinkle of holiday-themed sprinkles on top before baking.
Let the cookies cool completely before storing to maintain their texture.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A large bowl for creaming the butter and sugar. A stand mixer works great, but a hand mixer or even a whisk will do!
Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper ensures easy cleanup. You can also use a silicone baking mat.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements. A kitchen scale can be a handy alternative.
Spatula: Perfect for folding in the cherries and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Wire rack: Ideal for cooling the cookies. If you don’t have one, a plate will work in a pinch!

Variations

Chocolate Chip Delight: Swap out some maraschino cherries for semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich twist.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a refreshing citrus note that complements the cherries.
Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea for a cozy treat.
Serve them on a festive platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
For a holiday gathering, stack them in a clear jar tied with a ribbon for a charming gift.
Enjoy them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

FAQs about Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

While fresh cherries can be used, they have a higher moisture content. This might affect the texture of your cookies. If you choose to use fresh cherries, make sure to chop them finely and pat them dry before adding them to the dough.

How do I store the cookies to keep them fresh?

To keep your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before shaping and baking.

What can I substitute for almond extract?

If you don’t have almond extract on hand, you can use an equal amount of vanilla extract or even a splash of coconut extract for a different flavor profile. Each will give your cookies a unique twist!

Can I add frosting to these cookies?

Of course! A light drizzle of icing or melted chocolate can elevate your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Just let them cool completely before adding any toppings to ensure they don’t melt into a gooey mess!

Final Thoughts

Making Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is pure holiday magic. Each bite transports you to a cozy winter evening, surrounded by loved ones. These cookies are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. They remind us that the simplest recipes often bring the most joy. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the holiday spirit inspire you. Trust me, these cookies will become a beloved tradition in your home!