Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a festive twist on a classic treat. With buttery richness, bursts of juicy cherries, and optional chocolate chips, they make a perfect holiday dessert to share or gift.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
• Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This creates the buttery base of your shortbread.
2. Step 2: Mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with a subtle sweet flavor.
3. Step 3: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the shortbread tender.
4. Step 4: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and, if using, the mini chocolate chips.
5. Step 5: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour to firm it up and improve texture.
6. Step 6: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets. Slightly flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass.
7. Step 7: Bake the cookies for 14-16 minutes, until the edges just start to turn golden. Watch carefully to avoid overbaking.
8. Step 8: Let the cookies cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar while still warm for a sweet, festive finish.

Tips & Variations

• For a nutty twist, add 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts with the cherries.
• Try dipping half of each cookie in melted white or dark chocolate for extra indulgence.
• If you prefer less sweetness, rinse maraschino cherries under cold water and pat dry before chopping.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cooled cookies in a sealed container for up to three months. To reheat, let them come to room temperature or warm gently in a low oven for a few minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries can be used but may add extra moisture and require adjustments in baking time. Maraschino cherries are preferred for their sweetness and texture in these cookies.

What if I don’t want to add chocolate chips?

The chocolate chips are optional and can be omitted without affecting the overall flavor of the cookies. The cherries provide plenty of sweetness and color.

Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 81 reviews

These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies combine the buttery richness of classic shortbread with festive bursts of sweet maraschino cherries and optional mini chocolate chips. Perfectly tender and lightly sweetened, these cookies are an elegant holiday treat dusted with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

• Author: Felix
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookie Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

For Finishing

• Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step creates the rich, buttery base required for light and tender shortbread.
2. Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with a subtle, sweet aroma that complements the cherries.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be cautious not to overmix to maintain the delicate texture of the shortbread.
4. Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and, if using, the mini chocolate chips gently to evenly distribute them throughout the dough without breaking the cherries.
5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling firms the dough, making it easier to shape and improving the cookie texture.
6. Preheat and Shape: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Slightly flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass to achieve the classic shortbread shape.
7. Bake: Bake the cookies for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a light golden brown. Keep a close eye to avoid overbaking, ensuring the cookies remain tender.
8. Cool and Dust: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. While still warm, dust the tops generously with powdered sugar for a festive and sweet finish.

Notes

• Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
• Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading and to help maintain the shape of the cookies.
• Mini chocolate chips are optional but add a nice contrast to the sweet cherries.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For an extra festive look, use colored sprinkles alongside the powdered sugar dusting.

Keywords: Christmas cookies, shortbread, maraschino cherry cookies, holiday baking, festive cookies