Name: Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies for Festive Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 cup Maraschino Cherries (chopped and drained); 1/2 cup Optional Mini Chocolate Chips (for added indulgence); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (for dusting); 1/2 cup Holiday Sprinkles (for decoration)

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As the scent of cinnamon and pine fills the air, a cheerful kitchen becomes the backdrop for extraordinary holiday memories. I’ve discovered a festive delight that feels like a warm hug: Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. These charming treats combine a sweet, buttery base with vibrant bursts of maraschino cherry, making them not only a visual feast but also a quick win for bakers of all skill levels. In just a short time, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or tucking into gift boxes for loved ones. The delightful crumbly texture and subtle sweetness will surely make them the talk of the party. Ready to infuse your holiday celebrations with some cheer?

Why are these cookies a holiday must-have?

Irresistible flavor: The combination of buttery shortbread and sweet maraschino cherries creates a flavor profile that dances on your palate.

Effortless preparation: Even novice bakers will find this recipe easy to master, with minimal steps and a quick bake time.

Festive appearance: Bright red cherries nestled in delicate cookie dough create a visually stunning treat that will impress at any holiday gathering.

Perfect for gifting: Wrap these cookies up in a pretty box and spread joy to friends and family — they make delightful handmade gifts!

Versatile options: Love chocolate? Toss in some mini chocolate chips or try variations with dried cranberries for a unique twist.

Make sure to pair these wonderful cookies with warm beverages like hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy experience!

Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookies

Unsalted Butter – Use for richness and a tender texture; cream it well for the lightest cookies.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; consider using a mix of granulated and brown sugar for deeper flavor.
All-Purpose Flour – This is the foundation of your cookies; substitute with gluten-free flour if desired.
Maraschino Cherries – Provides a pop of festive color and sweetness; make sure to chop and drain them well.
Optional Mini Chocolate Chips – For added indulgence; sub with dark chocolate for a richer taste.

For Optional Garnish

Powdered Sugar – Dust on top for a pretty presentation and slight sweetness.
Holiday Sprinkles – Add a festive touch; perfect for creating a cheerful appearance on your cookie tray.

These Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies not only taste heavenly but will captivate everyone with their festive flair!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly even bake right from the start. While the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper, which prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Keep an eye on your oven, as this is a crucial step for achieving that golden edge on your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar, then use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream them together. Beat on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture turns light and fluffy, appearing pale in color. This step is vital for incorporating air into your batter, which will help create a tender, crumbly texture in your cookies.

Step 3: Add the Flour
Now, gradually add all-purpose flour to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser cookies. The dough should begin to pull away from the sides of the bowl and look cohesive but slightly crumbly, which is exactly what you want for your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies.

Step 4: Fold in Cherries and Optional Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, ensuring they are well-drained to prevent excess moisture. If you wish to elevate your cookies, add in mini chocolate chips at this stage. Use a spatula to blend everything together until the cherries and chocolate are evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating a delightful explosion of color and flavor in each cookie.

Step 5: Scoop and Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading. A small cookie scoop works wonders here! Aim for a neat formation to give your cookies that appealing, uniform look. This will ensure each Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookie bakes evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep a close watch during the last few minutes; you want the edges to be lightly golden but maintain a soft center. The fragrant scent of butter and cherries will fill your kitchen, signaling that your delicious cookies are almost ready.

Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set before you transfer them. After they’re slightly firm, gently transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This final step ensures that your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies maintain their delicate texture.

Expert Tips for Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much after adding flour can lead to tough cookies. Aim for just combined to keep them tender.
Chill for Better Shape: If your dough feels too soft, chill it for 30 minutes. This helps in shaping and prevents excessive spreading during baking.
Drain Cherries Well: Properly draining chopped maraschino cherries is crucial. Too much moisture can ruin the texture of your cookies.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with sugar and optimal texture.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies with variations like nuts or dried fruits for unique flavors.

What to Serve with Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies?

As you whip up a batch of these delightful cookies, consider pairing them with accompaniments that elevate your holiday experience.

Rich Hot Cocoa: Complement the sweetness with a warm cup of cocoa topped with whipped cream. The chocolaty richness beautifully balances the cherry flavor.
Freshly Brewed Coffee: The robust notes of coffee make a perfect contrast to the buttery shortbread, offering a cozy and invigorating beverage option.
Decadent Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful warm-and-cold dessert experience that feels like pure indulgence.
Festive Fruit Salad: A refreshingly light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and enhance the overall festive vibe.
Cinnamon-Spiced Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai create a comforting atmosphere and harmonize beautifully with the sweet notes of maraschino cherries.
Holiday Spritz Cookies: Offering an assortment of cookies is always a hit! These delicate cookies add variety and visual appeal, making your cookie platter a treat for the senses.
Sparkling Apple Cider: A bubbly, non-alcoholic drink choice, sparkling cider enhances the festive mood while providing a crisp and sweet sip to accompany your baked goods.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate provides a delightful contrast to the sweet and buttery cookies, making for an exciting treat combination.

These delightful pairings elevate your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies to create a full, festive experience for your holiday gatherings!

Make Ahead Options

These Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to savor the festivities without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then chilling the dough in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavors but also firms up the dough for easier scooping. Additionally, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. Just remember to let them cool completely before storing to maintain that delightful crumbly texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply dust with powdered sugar or garnish before indulging in these charming holiday treats!

How to Store and Freeze Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and crumbly.

Refrigeration: If you live in a warm climate or want them to last longer, refrigerate the cookies for additional freshness—just ensure they’re well-wrapped to avoid dryness.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies by placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, remove from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore their texture if desired.

Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies; there are delightful ways to customize their deliciousness!

Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate mini chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks for an extra layer of flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the cherries.
Nutty Delight: Swap maraschino cherries for chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture and a rich, nutty flavor that complements the buttery base.
Cranberry Twist: Use dried cranberries instead of cherries for a tart contrast, adding a festive red hue that works wonderfully in holiday desserts.
Peppermint Surprise: Want a cool twist? Mix in crushed peppermint candies to introduce a refreshing flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Citrus Zing: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the dough for a bright citrusy flavor that brings a pop of sunshine to these winter treats.
Egg-Free Option: If you’re looking for a vegan option, substitute butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg for the same rich taste without the eggs.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for those sensitive to gluten, and enjoy the same delightful taste and texture.
Fruity Fusion: Combine maraschino cherries with chopped fresh strawberries or raspberries for a delightful mix of sweetness and a juicy twist.

For more festive inspiration, consider trying our Tiramisu Cookies Melt or whip up a batch of Chocolate Chip Cookies for that classic touch!

Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! When selecting maraschino cherries, look for those that are bright red in color and free from dark spots. Ensure they are firm and well-packed in syrup, as this indicates freshness. For the best results, drain them well before adding to the cookie dough to prevent excess moisture, which can make the cookies soggy.

How should I store my Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To maintain their crumbly texture, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you live in a humid climate, refrigerating them can help keep them fresh — just ensure they are wrapped well!

Can I freeze Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes; if desired, reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain their soft texture.

What can I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the butter and make the dough easier to scoop and shape. Additionally, using a cookie scoop for portioning can help maintain even sizes for baking.

Are these cookies suitable for those with nut allergies?
Very! The base recipe for Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies does not include any nuts, making them a great option for those with nut allergies. However, always double-check your ingredients, especially when using add-ins like mini chocolate chips or any variations. It’s always a good practice to communicate with anyone you’re serving, just to be safe.

How should I serve these cookies for maximum enjoyment?
Pair these delightful cookies with warm beverages like hot cocoa, coffee, or tea for a cozy experience. They also make a stunning centerpiece on any holiday cookie platter, adding not just flavor but a pop of festive color that everyone will enjoy!