Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

Name: Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 1 h 31 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 225 grams unsalted butter, softened; 65 grams powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 250 grams all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon fine salt; 80 grams maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped; 90 grams mini chocolate chips (optional)

Author: Lora

Published: November 12, 2025

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Introduction to Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

As the holiday season rolls around, I find myself daydreaming about the sweet aroma of baking filling my home. The festive cheer brings out the best in me, especially when I whip up a batch of Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread. Picture buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies speckled with vibrant cherries, perfect for sharing or indulging yourself. This recipe is not just about convenience; it’s a heartfelt way to express love through food. Whether you’re a busy mom or a working professional, these charming cookies are an easy treat to brighten anyone’s day.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

This Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread is a holiday hero in every sense. First, it’s easy to whip up, making it a delightful option for busy schedules. The buttery goodness mingles with the chewy cherries, creating a treat that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family during festive gatherings. With each bite, you’ll savor the spirit of Christmas, wrapped up in a warm cookie hug!

Ingredients for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

Gathering the right ingredients is like setting the stage for a festive performance. Here’s what you need for your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread:

Unsalted butter: This is the backbone of your shortbread, giving it that rich, buttery flavor. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Powdered sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, it adds a subtle sweetness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this fragrant essence elevates the flavor, making your cookies taste even more delightful.
All-purpose flour: The base of your dough, flour provides structure. It’s flexible, allowing for the perfect balance of soft and crumbly.
Fine salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness from being overwhelming.
Maraschino cherries: These vibrant red gems bring a festive pop! Make sure to drain and chop them finely for even distribution throughout the cookies.
Mini chocolate chips (optional): For an extra layer of indulgence, toss in some chocolate chips. They contrast beautifully with the cherries, although they are entirely optional.

Don’t worry about the measurements just yet; detailed quantities are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the joy of making these Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread cookies. Trust me, the process is as satisfying as the taste itself.

Step 1: Creaming the Butter and Sugar

Start by placing your softened unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl. With a hand mixer or a spoon, beat the butter until it’s nice and creamy. This step is crucial; it’s where you infuse air into the butter, making your cookies light and delightful.

Next, add the powdered sugar gradually. Beat it all together until it becomes smooth and fluffy. If it feels like a winter wonderland, you’re on the right track!

Step 2: Adding Flavor with Vanilla Extract

Once your butter and sugar mixture is whipped to perfection, it’s time to introduce the fragrant vanilla extract. Just pour it in and mix until everything is well combined. Oh, the aroma! It’s like holiday magic in a bowl.

Step 3: Mixing in Flour and Salt

Now, grab your all-purpose flour and fine salt. Gradually sift the flour into the bowl, mixing it gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender cookie, not a tough one!

Once there are no dry patches left, stop mixing. The dough should feel soft but hold together well, ready to embrace the cherries!

Step 4: Incorporating Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Time for the stars of our show! Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries and, if you’re feeling adventurous, toss in those mini chocolate chips. This step brings colorful life to your dough!

Ensure everything is evenly distributed. Picture those cherries bursting with flavor in every cookie bite—it’s what Christmas dreams are made of!

Step 5: Chilling the Dough

Wrap your lovely dough in plastic wrap, like a cozy blanket, and pop it into the fridge. Let it chill for at least 60 minutes. This step not only makes the dough easier to shape but also prevents cookies from spreading too much while they bake.

Step 6: Shaping the Cookies

Once your dough is firm, preheat your oven to 165°C (that’s 325°F for us Americans!). Now, take your chilled dough out of the fridge. Roll it into 2.5 cm (about 1 inch) balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Using the bottom of a glass, gently flatten each ball. They’ll expand during baking, creating little rounds of heaven!

Step 7: Baking the Cookies

Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Set a timer for 14 to 16 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you’re looking for just barely golden edges and pale centers. That’s when you know they’re perfect!

Step 8: Finishing Touches with Sugar

As soon as the cookies are out of the oven, transfer them onto wire racks to cool. While they’re still warm, dust the tops with powdered sugar for that enchanting snowy effect. It’s the finishing touch that makes them sparkle!

Now, stand back and admire your glorious Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread cookies. Not only do they look festive, but they also promise to bring joy to every bite!

Tips for Success

Always use softened unsalted butter for easier mixing and a creamy texture.
Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps your cookies hold shape while baking.
For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon for consistent sizes.
Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts for extra crunch!
Watch them closely as they bake; even a minute can make a difference!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl works great; you can use a glass or stainless steel one for easy cleaning.
Hand mixer or wooden spoon: Use either; a hand mixer saves time, but a spoon adds a personal touch.
Baking sheets: Use parchment-lined sheets or silicone mats for easy removal.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy; a kitchen scale can help too.
Wire rack: For cooling; a simple plate can work in a pinch.

Variations

Nutty Delight: Substitute half the maraschino cherries with your favorite nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a satisfying crunch.
Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap out mini chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks for a richer, more decadent treat.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour for a delightful gluten-free version.
Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk in lieu of vanilla extract to create a vegan-friendly cookie.

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of peppermint tea or hot cocoa for a festive treat.
Serve them on a decorative platter, perhaps sprinkled with a little extra powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
Include them in a homemade cookie tin as a thoughtful gift during the holiday season.
Offer a side of vanilla or cherry ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

FAQs about Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

Can I make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread ahead of time?

Absolutely! These festive cookies can be made days in advance. Just keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. To keep them fresh, add a layer of parchment paper between cookie layers.

What can I use instead of maraschino cherries?

If maraschino cherries aren’t your style, feel free to swap them for dried cranberries or chopped fresh cherries. Both alternatives can bring a lovely flavor to your cookies!

How do I store the cookies?

Once cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container. They’ll last for about a week. If you freeze them, they can last for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them at room temperature before indulging!

Can I add other ingredients to enhance the flavor?

Definitely! Consider adding nuts for a crunchy texture or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, festive twist. Experimenting can make your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread uniquely yours!

How can I make these cookies more festive for parties?

Add colorful sprinkles on top before baking or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a stunning presentation. Whether for a family gathering or your book club, they’ll bring holiday cheer!

Final Thoughts

As I reflect on my time baking these delightful Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread cookies, I can’t help but feel delight wash over me. The process is a joyful escape from the rush of the season. With every dough ball formed, I’m reminded of holiday gatherings filled with laughter and love. These cookies are not just treats; they encapsulate the spirit of Christmas. Sharing them with family and friends creates heartwarming moments and cherished memories. So, roll up your sleeves, dive into the magic of baking, and let the sweet aroma fill your home with festive cheer!