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Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe
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★★★★★

5.3 from 13 reviews

These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender, and festive treats perfect for the holiday season. Featuring a classic shortbread base enriched with chopped maraschino cherries and optional mini chocolate chips, these cookies are lightly dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet and elegant finish. Their delicate crumb and subtle sweetness make them an irresistible holiday favorite.

Ingredients

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Shortbread Dough

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Add-ins

  • 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, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter together with the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and light in texture. This step ensures a tender base for the shortbread cookies.
  2. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the dough with a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
  3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing gently and just until the dough comes together. Be careful to avoid overmixing to maintain a delicate crumb in your cookies.
  4. Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips (if using) evenly, distributing the festive bursts of color and extra flavor throughout the dough.
  5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and aiding in developing the best texture for the cookies.
  6. Preheat and Shape: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch diameter balls. Place them spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then gently flatten each ball using the bottom of a glass to create uniform cookie shapes.
  7. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 14-16 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn a light golden color. Watch carefully to avoid overbaking, as shortbread is best when tender and crumbly.
  8. Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. While still warm, dust the tops generously with powdered sugar for a classic holiday look and extra sweetness.

Notes

  • For best results, ensure butter is softened, not melted.
  • Chilling the dough is essential; don’t skip this step to prevent spreading while baking.
  • Mini chocolate chips are optional but highly recommended for an extra flavor contrast.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • Maraschino cherries add sweetness and moisture; pat dry with paper towels if too wet before adding.
  • These cookies freeze well — freeze baked cookies or dough balls wrapped tightly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas cookies, shortbread, maraschino cherries, holiday baking, festive cookies, chocolate chip cookies, easy cookie recipe

Find it online: https://freshrecipehub.com/christmas-maraschino-cherry-shortbread-cookies-recipe/