The first bite of a warm cookie can whisk me back to holiday kitchens filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of sweet treats. This season, I’m thrilled to share my Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies, a twist on a classic that’s perfect for festive gatherings. These cheerful cookies combine the tender richness of shortbread with the delightful tartness of maraschino cherries, inviting a pop of color and flavor that’s sure to impress. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, making them a great choice for busy bakers, but they also serve as a crowd-pleasing surprise that fills your home with the joy of the holidays. Who could resist sharing a plate of these delightful cookies with friends and family? Get ready to dig in and discover this sweet tradition!
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?
Festive Appeal: With vibrant maraschino cherries, these cookies are a holiday showstopper that will light up any gathering.
Simplicity Redefined: Even novice bakers can create these delightful treats without any fuss, thanks to the straightforward instructions.
Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: From cookie swaps to family feasts, everyone will reach for these irresistible bites.
Perfect Texture: The rich buttery base harmonizes beautifully with the cherries and chocolate, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Make Ahead Convenience: The dough can be prepared in advance, making holiday baking a breeze—simply slice and bake when you’re ready!
For more festive recipes, check out my guide on holiday baking essentials.
Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and tenderness; use salted butter if preferred, but reduce added salt.
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and lightness to cookie texture; essential for achieving that delicate shortbread feel.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookie; a gluten-free flour blend can be used for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Maraschino Cherries – Adds flavor and festive color; ensure they are well-drained and blotted dry to prevent dough discoloration.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; can be substituted with almond extract for a delightful twist.
• Chocolate Chips – For sweetness and texture contrast; mini chips work best for better integration into the dough.
Optional Add-ins
• Chopped Nuts – Include pecans or walnuts for added crunch; a perfect complement to the cherries.
• Dried Cranberries – Use in place of cherries for a different festive flair; they’ll add a tangy burst.
• Colored Sugar – Roll the log in colored sugar before chilling for a dazzling, festive finish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Mixture
Begin by draining maraschino cherries and placing them on paper towels to dry thoroughly; this step is crucial for avoiding excess moisture in your dough. If you prefer smaller pieces, chop the cherries into quarters at this stage. Set them aside to ensure they are well-drained and ready to add a burst of flavor to your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This step is vital for creating a lush, tender base for your cookies. The fluffy consistency will ensure your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies have that delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender. Once the flour is incorporated, carefully fold in the prepared maraschino cherries and ½ cup of chocolate chips, ensuring that they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 4: Form the Log
Transfer the dough onto a clean surface and shape it into a cylindrical log, about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. This chilling time is essential for firming up the dough, making it easier to slice and ensuring your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies hold their shape while baking.
Step 5: Slice and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Once the dough is chilled, unwrap it and slice it into ¼-inch thick rounds. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each to allow for spreading. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden for that perfect baked finish.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step ensures they set perfectly but remain tender. Once completely cooled, your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are ready to be enjoyed or packaged for sharing with family and friends during the festive season.
Make Ahead Options
These Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance by following all the steps, then wrap the formed log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. To ensure the best quality, make sure the maraschino cherries are well-drained and blotted dry to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the dough’s texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply slice and bake as directed. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll have delicious, festive cookies ready to serve with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
What to Serve with Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies?
These cookies evoke memories of holiday gatherings, best enjoyed with delightful companions that enhance their sweet charm.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of creamy hot chocolate provides a delicious contrast, complementing the sweetness of the cookies.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices of chai blend beautifully, creating a harmonious pairing that elevates the festive spirit.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream drizzled with chocolate sauce offers a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
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Winter Fruit Salad: Fresh, colorful fruits like oranges and pomegranates add a refreshing zest, balancing the cookies’ richness with vibrant flavors.
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Peppermint Tea: A soothing peppermint tea lightens the palate and pairs well with the festive notes of the maraschino cherries.
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Nuts and Dried Fruits Platter: A mix of crunchy nuts and chewy dried fruits provides texture and flavors that enhance your cookie experience.
Sharing these Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies with these companions creates the perfect gathering atmosphere filled with warmth and joy!
How to Store and Freeze Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Airtight Container: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their freshness and texture.
Refrigerator: If you prefer a chilled treat, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough logs for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before slicing and baking.
Reheating: If stored in the fridge, allow cookies to come to room temperature before enjoying, or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to revive their delightful texture.
Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Variations
Feel free to personalize these delightful cookies with your own unique twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that complements the cherries. Their earthy flavor brings a warm, inviting touch to each bite.
- Festive Dried Fruit: Swap maraschino cherries for dried cranberries or apricots for a tangy and chewy alternative. This twist not only changes the flavor but also adds an eye-catching pop of color.
- Almond Flavor: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a deeper, nutty aroma. This subtle shift can elevate the cookies’ elegance, creating a rich taste that’s perfect for special occasions.
- Cocoa Twist: Mix in a few tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to create a chocolate-flavored shortbread. Pair it with the cherries for a delightful chocolate-cherry combo that will have everyone asking for your secret!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note that invites festive cheer. These aromatic flavors will evoke memories of holiday kitchens filled with love and joy.
- Colored Sugar Coating: Roll the cookie log in festive colored sugar before chilling for an eye-catching, sparkly finish. This cheerful step adds festive flair that’s perfect for holiday gifting.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an indulgent finishing touch. This decadent addition is a festive treat that will impress your guests.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies accessible for everyone. This way, you can share the joy without compromising on flavor or texture.
For more baking adventures, don’t miss my guide on holiday baking essentials.
Expert Tips for Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
• Butter Matters: Always use room temperature butter for optimal mixing. Cold butter won’t cream well and can lead to dense cookies.
• Dry Those Cherries: Ensure maraschino cherries are completely dried before adding them to the dough. Moisture can alter the texture and color of your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough until just combined to keep your cookies tender. Overmixing can develop gluten and lead to tough cookies.
• Watch the Bake Time: Baking times can vary with different ovens. Keep an eye on your cookies and remove them when the edges are lightly golden for the best results.
• Chill for Shape: Don’t skip the chilling step! Cooling the dough helps maintain the cookies’ shape while baking, ensuring even slices and a perfect presentation.
Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best maraschino cherries for baking?
Absolutely! When selecting maraschino cherries, look for bright, vibrant colors without any dark spots or excessive syrup. I recommend choosing those that are well-drained and blotted dry. This will prevent any extra moisture from affecting your cookie dough, ensuring a perfect bake.
What storage methods are best for keeping these cookies fresh?
Very! Store your baked Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Alternatively, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, but be sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough logs for up to 3 months. Wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough overnight in the fridge before slicing and baking as directed.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Oh no! If your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are spreading excessively, it might be because the dough was too warm. Ensure your dough is well-chilled before slicing. If you’re still experiencing issues, consider adding a little extra flour to your mixture, about 1-2 tablespoons, but be careful not to overdo it, as this could lead to denser cookies.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! For those who are gluten-sensitive, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in this recipe without compromising too much on texture. Plus, always check the label on your maraschino cherries for any added ingredients that may trigger allergies.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Great question! Cookies are done baking when the edges turn lightly golden brown, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep a close eye on them, as individual oven times can vary. If you’re looking for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience, remove them as soon as the edges are golden!
Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies for a Festive Touch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Drain and dry maraschino cherries, chop if preferred; set aside.
- Cream together softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Gradually mix all-purpose flour, then fold in cherries and chocolate chips until combined.
- Shape dough into a cylindrical log, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice dough into ¼-inch thick rounds and arrange on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool on a wire rack.
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