Every holiday season, I find myself drawn to the intoxicating aroma of butter and sugar wafting through my kitchen, especially when I’m whipping up a batch of Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. These delightful cookies blend rich, buttery flavor with the sweet pop of maraschino cherries, creating a treat that’s not only visually stunning but also incredibly scrumptious. What I adore most is how easy they are to make—perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed by holiday prep—and their ability to impress friends and family alike, making them ideal for festive gatherings or as heartfelt gifts. So, are you ready to fill your home with warmth and joy while baking these tasty little wonders? Let’s dive in!
What Makes These Cookies Special?
Uniqueness: These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are not your average holiday treat! The vibrant cherries provide a festive pop of color and flavor that brightens any cookie platter.
Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these cookies up in no time, even amidst holiday chaos.
Versatile Add-Ons: Feel free to elevate the flavor by adding mini chocolate chips for a delightful twist, or experiment with different dried fruits!
Perfect for Gifting: Wrapped in festive packaging, these cookies make fantastic gifts for friends and family during the holiday season, just like our classic Orange Shortbread Cookies.
Crowd-Pleaser: They’re tender, buttery, and bursting with flavor—sure to be a hit at any gathering! Pair them with your favorite holiday drink for the ultimate indulgence.
Storage-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze; they’ll keep their deliciousness for whenever you need a sweet treat!
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Ingredients
• Create festive bliss with these easy-to-make treats!
For the Cookie Base
• Butter – Use unsalted for the best control over the cookie’s saltiness.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and tenderizes; can be swapped with a sugar alternative if desired.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cookie’s structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Salt – Balances sweetness; omit if using salted butter.
For the Flavor
• Chopped Maraschino Cherries – Adds a burst of festive sweetness and color; drain well to avoid excess moisture.
• Mini Chocolate Chips (optional) – Introduces a rich chocolatey flavor that complements the cherries; dark chocolate can add a deeper richness.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This essential step ensures even baking and helps achieve that lightly golden edge we adore in our Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. While the oven heats up, gather your mixing bowls and baking sheets lined with parchment paper to prepare for the next steps.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This process incorporates air, creating a soft texture in your cookies. The mixture should look pale and creamy, which is exactly what we want for delicious shortbread.
Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to your creamed mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as you see no dry flour. At this point, you should have a soft dough that is ready for the delightful additions.
Step 4: Incorporate Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in 3/4 cup of finely chopped maraschino cherries and, if using, 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the dough. Use a spatula to carefully mix these ingredients, ensuring the cherries are evenly distributed without overworking the dough. You’ll start to see flecks of vibrant red among the buttery base—how festive!
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading. Aim for mounds of dough that are approximately 1 inch high to create thicker cookies. This ensures that your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies will have that satisfying, soft center once baked.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. You want them to set up nicely but remain tender, so don’t let them overbake!
Step 7: Cool and Transfer
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to wire racks. Once they are cool enough to handle, gently move them to the racks to cool completely, where they’ll finish setting and develop their delightful texture.
Expert Tips for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for a smooth dough. Cold butter won’t cream well and could lead to dense cookies.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can result in tough cookies, so keep it gentle!
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Check Your Oven: Oven temperatures can vary. Keep an eye on your cookies during baking; they should be set but not overly brown for the best results.
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Cooling Time: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring. This helps them firm up without breaking.
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Storage Tips: Store freshly baked Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for later enjoyment!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked treats while saving precious time. You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain quality. For longer storage, you may also freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and bake as instructed, adding a minute or two to the baking time if baking from frozen. This way, you’ll achieve those delicious, festive cookies with minimal effort during the busy holiday season!
Storage Tips for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their tender texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, these cookies can also be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 1 week, but this may change the texture slightly.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: If desired, gently reheat cookies in the microwave for 5–10 seconds for that freshly-baked warmth, enhancing your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies experience!
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these cookies; they’re your canvas for festive flavors and textures!
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Dried Fruit: Swap maraschino cherries for dried cranberries or raisins for a different fruity flair. The chewy texture will complement the buttery base beautifully.
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Almond Extract: Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist. The nutty aroma pairs wonderfully with the buttery flavor, enhancing this festive treat.
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Chocolate Choices: Experiment with dark, white, or milk chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips; each brings its own delightful taste to the cookies.
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Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch and flavor. Tossing in a handful can elevate the texture of your cookies quite wonderfully!
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Citrus Zest: Grate some orange or lemon zest into the dough for an aromatic citrus hint that will bring brightness to each bite. It’s a refreshing twist that works perfectly for the holidays.
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Spiced Version: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, seasonal spice that’s reminiscent of holiday desserts. This adds a cozy touch to your cookies.
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Frosted Delight: Consider frosting your cookies with a simple glaze or cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of sweetness that will surely catch the eye!
If you love the versatility of holiday baking, check out our delightful Raspberry Linzer Cookies or the festive charm of Christmas Crinkle Cookies. Get baking and design your personalized version of Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies!
What to Serve with Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Indulging in these festive treats opens a world of delightful pairings that elevate your holiday celebration.
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Hot Cocoa: A rich, creamy cup of hot cocoa complements the buttery sweetness of the cookies, creating a heartwarming treat. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth.
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Eggnog: This classic holiday drink enhances the festive atmosphere, its creamy texture and spices perfectly balancing the cookies’ sweetness. It’s a match made in holiday heaven!
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Coffee: A brisk cup of brewed coffee offers a lovely contrast to the sweet cookies, uplifting every bite with a hint of bitterness. Try pairing it with a dash of cream for added richness.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the buttery flavors, creating a luxurious dessert experience. The cold creaminess harmonizes with warm cookies for a perfect dish.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies, providing a light and vibrant element. Seasonal fruits like mandarin oranges and pomegranate seeds bring festive color!
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Spiced Tea: A cup of spiced tea, such as chai or ginger, offers warmth and aroma that beautifully complements the cookies. The spices enhance the sweetness and create a cozy feeling.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: For a sweet yet tart pairing, serve chocolate-dipped strawberries alongside the cookies. Your tastebuds will rejoice at the medley of flavors and textures!
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Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses alongside your cookies offers a savory counterbalance. Choose mild varieties that won’t overpower the cookie’s sweetness.
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Chocolate Covered Almonds: These provide satisfying crunch and richness that complement the buttery cookies. Their chocolatey notes tie into the flavors of optional chocolate chips, enhancing the overall enjoyment!
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe maraschino cherries for the recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting maraschino cherries, look for those that are vibrant in color and free of any dark spots or excessive syrup. The cherries should feel firm but not mushy. To avoid excess moisture in your cookies, I recommend draining them well before chopping and incorporating them into the dough. This helps maintain the perfect balance of flavor without making the cookies soggy.
What is the best way to store Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies?
You can store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They’ll maintain their tender texture this way. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for the same duration in a sealed container, but be aware that refrigeration may alter the texture slightly, making them a bit firmer.
Can I freeze Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies?
Yes, indeed! To freeze these cookies, let them cool completely after baking. Then, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature, or microwave them for 5–10 seconds to warm them slightly for that fresh-baked taste.
What should I do if my cookie dough seems too dry?
Very often, a dry dough can be a result of measuring errors. If your dough appears too crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of milk or water and mix gently until you achieve the desired consistency. The dough should come together without being overly sticky or wet. Always remember, it’s easier to add moisture than to fix a wet dough, so start slowly!
Are these cookies safe for pets or those with allergies?
Keep in mind that maraschino cherries often contain added sugars and preservatives, which are not suitable for pets. If you’re concerned about allergies, always double-check the labels on ingredients like butter and chocolate chips for any allergens such as dairy or gluten. You can easily customize this recipe to be nut-free or gluten-free by using allergen-friendly alternatives. If you’re baking for someone with specific dietary restrictions, ask about their preferences to ensure everyone can enjoy them!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing the dough in advance is a fantastic idea. You can wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough by shaping it into logs, wrapping tightly in parchment paper and foil, and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can slice and bake the cookies whenever you want! Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before slicing and baking for the best results.
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies to Festive Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until just combined.
- Gently fold in 3/4 cup of chopped maraschino cherries and 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips.
- Use a cookie scoop to portion dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges start to turn lightly golden.
- Cool cookies on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
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