Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I opened my grandmother’s old recipe box, the air filled with nostalgia, and the first card I saw was for her cherished Melt In Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies. The combination of crumbly butteriness and the vibrant pop of maraschino cherries makes these cookies a holiday staple that never fails to impress. Not only are they strikingly beautiful, but they’re also simple to whip up, ensuring that even novice bakers can create something special for their loved ones. These cookies don’t just look festive; they deliver a melt-in-your-mouth experience that feels like wrapping yourself in a warm hug during the colder months. Ready to elevate your dessert game and bring some joy to your holiday baking? Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will leave everyone wanting more! Why are Cherry Shortbread Cookies So Loved? Irresistible Charm: These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are a stunning addition to any holiday spread, boasting vibrant red cherry pieces that catch the eye. Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, even beginners can master these delightful treats. Versatile Flavor: The buttery richness pairs perfectly with nutty almond extract—or swap in other flavors like vanilla for a twist! Perfect for Gifting: Their festive appearance makes them an excellent choice for cookie exchanges or as thoughtful gifts. Crowd Favorite: These cookies hold wide appeal, ensuring they’ll be a hit at your holiday parties, just like my Lemon Raspberry Cookies or Tiramisu Cookies Melt. Cherry Shortbread Cookies Ingredients Get ready to bake these delightful treats! For the Dough Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy creaming. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and contributes to the cookie’s lovely texture. Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor and can be swapped with almond extract for a unique twist. Almond Extract – Adds a nutty flavor that complements the cherries; feel free to omit if you prefer a different taste. Maraschino Cherry Juice – Moistens the dough and adds a hint of cherry flavor; essential for the perfect Cherry Shortbread Cookies! All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; remember to spoon and level to avoid excess flour. Maraschino Cherries – The star of these cookies, providing bursts of flavor and vibrant color; drain and chop before adding to the dough. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Melt In Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies Step 1: Prepare Dough In a stand mixer, cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter on medium speed for about 1 minute until light and fluffy. Gradually add ¾ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon almond extract, and 2 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth. The mixture should be pale and creamy, ready for the next step. Step 2: Incorporate Flour Slowly add 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the creamed mixture while mixing on low speed. Continue mixing just until a soft dough forms and no dry flour remains visible. Gently fold in ¾ cup of chopped maraschino cherries using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough for those delightful bursts in your cherry shortbread cookies. Step 3: Chill Dough Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and shape it into a disc about 1 inch thick. Wrap the disc tightly in plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 3 days. This chilling step is crucial, as it prevents the cookies from spreading excessively when baked, leading to the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture in your Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Step 4: Preheat Oven Once the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. The oven needs to be hot when the cookies are ready to bake, allowing them to rise and set properly for that lovely golden edge. Step 5: Shape Cookies Using a small cookie scoop, portion out the dough into balls, about 2 teaspoons each, and place them spaced out on the prepared baking sheets. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even baking, helping each Cherry Shortbread Cookie achieve that delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality everyone loves. The dough should look generous and round. Step 6: Bake Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-9 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned while the centers remain soft and pale. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as this could lead to a firmer texture. Once baked, remove the trays from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. What to Serve with Melt In Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies These delightful cookies invite a world of delicious pairings that can elevate any occasion. Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy warmth balances the sweet-tart cherry flavors, creating a cozy indulgent experience perfect for winter nights. Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth creaminess of vanilla ice cream complements the buttery shortbread and adds a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries or raspberries brightens up the plate, providing a refreshing tartness that enhances the cherry goodness. Cheese Board: A selection of soft cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, offers a savory contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, creating a balanced snacking experience. Sparkling Wine: The bubbles in a sparkling rosé lift the flavors of the cherries, making your dessert feel extra special and festive. Coffee or Espresso: A robust cup of coffee perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the cookies while helping to awaken the rich cherry undertones. Lemonade: The acidity and freshness of a chilled lemonade provides a light, refreshing counterpoint, brightening the palette with each sip. Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of rich chocolate ganache adds a luxurious touch, creating a decadent treat perfect for special occasions. Nutty Biscotti: For a lovely textural play, serve alongside homemade biscotti that offer a crunch, enhancing the soft, melt-in-your-mouth sensation of the cookies. Each pairing creates a unique and delightful experience, transforming these cherry shortbread cookies into the star of the show! Expert Tips for Cherry Shortbread Cookies Perfect Temperature: Use room-temperature butter for easy creaming; cold butter can lead to a dense texture in your Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step! It’s essential to prevent spreading, ensuring your cookies hold their beautiful shape. Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the dough once you add flour. This keeps your cookies tender and enhances that melt-in-your-mouth feel. Cookie Size: For uniform baking, use a cookie scoop to ensure each dough ball is the same size; this helps them cook evenly. Watch Closely: Keep an eye on baking time. Overbaked cookies can become too firm, losing that delightful softness you want in your Cherry Shortbread Cookies. How to Store and Freeze Cherry Shortbread Cookies Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful softness and flavor. Fridge: If you’re in a warmer climate, keep the container in the fridge for extra freshness; they’ll stay good for up to 10 days. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Reheating: To enjoy your Cherry Shortbread Cookies warm, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. Make Ahead Options These Melt In Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance by following a few simple steps. After mixing the dough, shape it into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. To maintain the cookies’ melt-in-your-mouth quality, make sure the dough is well-wrapped to prevent it from absorbing any odors. When you’re ready to bake, simply take the chilled dough out of the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, then scoop and shape into balls before baking. This makes putting together an impressive dessert effortless, saving you valuable time during busy holiday preparations! Cherry Shortbread Cookies Variations & Substitutions Feel free to explore these creative twists on your Cherry Shortbread Cookies, making each batch uniquely yours! Nutty Delight: Replace the maraschino cherries with chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and rich flavor. Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips or mini chocolate chunks to create a luscious chocolate cherry combo that’s hard to resist. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies safe for your gluten-sensitive friends and family. They’ll still come out just as delicious! Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor that beautifully complements the cherries. Spicy Twist: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spicy essence that brings comfort during the holidays. Dairy-Free: Substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil to make this recipe dairy-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions. Fruity Variations: Experiment with diced strawberries or blueberries instead of cherries for a different fruity experience; it’s a lovely way to change the flavor profile! Thinking of other delightful treats? You might also enjoy baking Lemon Raspberry Cookies for a tangy twist or satisfying your sweet tooth with Chocolate Chip Cookies. Enjoy indulging in your kitchen adventures! Melt In Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe maraschino cherries for my cookies? Absolutely! When selecting maraschino cherries, look for those that are bright red and plump without any dark spots or signs of wilting. They should have a glossy appearance and a firm texture to ensure they hold their shape during baking. How should I store my Cherry Shortbread Cookies? I recommend storing your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to 1 week. If you live in a warmer climate, keeping them in the fridge can extend their freshness to about 10 days! Can I freeze my Cherry Shortbread Cookies? Very much so! To freeze, place your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re firm. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag or an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and reheat at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their delightful texture. What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky? If your dough seems overly sticky when mixing, you can simply add a little more flour—start with a tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until it reaches a manageable consistency. Remember, though, adding too much flour can make your cookies tough, so be cautious and add only what’s necessary! Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies? Absolutely! If you’re making these Cherry Shortbread Cookies for someone with a nut allergy, simply omit the almond extract entirely and stick with the vanilla. The cookies will still be delicious while ensuring they’re safe for your guests. What’s the best way to incorporate different flavors into my Cherry Shortbread Cookies? For a unique twist, you can substitute the almond extract with other flavors like orange or lemon extract, which will add a wonderful citrusy brightness. Alternatively, try mixing in chopped nuts or chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous! Just ensure any additional ingredients don’t overwhelm the recipe—after all, we’re highlighting those lovely cherries! Irresistibly Soft Cherry Shortbread Cookies You’ll Love These Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a simple yet delicious holiday treat, combining buttery goodness with bursts of maraschino cherries. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 9 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 24 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1 cup Unsalted Butter softened to room temperature¾ cup Granulated Sugar1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract½ teaspoon Almond Extract optional2 tablespoons Maraschino Cherry Juice2 cups All-Purpose Flour spoon and leveled¾ cup Maraschino Cherries drained and chopped Equipment stand mixerBaking SheetsParchment PaperPlastic wrap Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a stand mixer, cream the softened butter on medium speed for about 1 minute until light and fluffy. Gradually add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and maraschino cherry juice, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.Slowly add all-purpose flour to the creamed mixture while mixing on low speed. Continue mixing just until a soft dough forms and no dry flour remains. Gently fold in chopped maraschino cherries using a spatula.Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and shape it into a disc about 1 inch thick. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.Using a small cookie scoop, portion out the dough into balls, about 2 teaspoons each, and place them spaced out on the prepared baking sheets.Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-9 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 25mgSugar: 6gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
