Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

this RECIPE

Introduction to Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

As the holiday season approaches, the kitchen becomes a whirlwind of flour and frosting, doesn’t it? One recipe that always puts a twinkle in my eye is Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread. This delightful treat isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly simple to make. Busy moms and professionals alike will appreciate how quickly these cookies come together. Plus, imagine delighting family and friends with these festive bites – it’s a sure way to spread joy! With their rich buttery flavor and sweet cherry surprise, these shortbread cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

These cookies are a holiday miracle! The charm of Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread lies in their ease and speed. In just a couple of hours, you can whip up these delightful treats, making them perfect for those busy days. Plus, their buttery texture combined with the sweetness of cherries hits the taste buds just right. Each bite is like a little holiday celebration, sure to impress without the stress!

Ingredients for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

Gathering your ingredients is like setting the stage for a festive performance! Here’s what you’ll need to create your delightful Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread:

• Unsalted butter: The star of our show! This helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetness is key! It gives the cookies a light, delicate touch.
• Vanilla extract: For depth of flavor, a splash of vanilla adds warmth and tradition.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of your dough! It combines with the butter to create that classic shortbread structure.
• Fine salt: A tiny pinch elevates the sweetness and balances flavors beautifully.
• Maraschino cherries: Our festive touch! These colorful bites deliver a sweet, cherry goodness that’s hard to resist.
• Mini chocolate chips (optional): For those who love a chocolatey twist! They complement the cherries perfectly.

Each ingredient works together like a beautifully arranged holiday bouquet. If you want to make any substitutions, you can try using coconut oil instead of butter or swapping the cherries for dried cranberries for a different twist! Exact measurements are listed at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and use.

How to Make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

Making Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread is a pleasure that anyone can enjoy. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have beautifully festive cookies ready in no time!

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. This will make the mixing process much easier and your cookies oh-so-fluffy!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together. You want it to be smooth and creamy, almost like a cloud. The longer you beat, the fluffier it gets!

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Mix

Next, blend in the vanilla extract until it’s fully combined. The scent will instantly make your kitchen feel festive. Just imagine the aroma as you create your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour and fine salt. Mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; we want it tender and crumbly! It’s like creating the perfect winter wonderland in your bowl.

Step 5: Fold in the Cherries

Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries and optional mini chocolate chips. This is where the magic happens! Each bite will burst with sweet cherry flavor. Get ready for some “oohs” and “aahs.”

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Wrap your dough in plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 60 minutes. Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving that perfectly tender texture. Trust me; it’s worth the wait!

Step 7: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 165°C (that’s about 325°F). Once the dough is firm, roll it into 2.5 cm balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and flatten each slightly with a glass. This little flattening trick helps them bake evenly!

Step 8: Cool and Dust

Bake the cookies for 14-16 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn a lovely golden brown while the centers remain pale. Once out of the oven, transfer your cookies to wire racks. While they’re still warm, dust the tops with additional powdered sugar for that charming snowy finish. Allow them to cool completely before indulging!

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and fluffier cookies.
• Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps achieve the right texture.
• Be gentle when folding in cherries to keep the dough from getting too mushy.
• Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is slightly different.
• Dust with powdered sugar before serving for that festive touch!

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: A medium bowl for combining ingredients; use any large bowl available.
• Hand mixer or whisk: A hand mixer speeds things up, but a whisk works just fine.
• Baking sheets: Parchment-lined sheets help prevent sticking; silicone mats work, too.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy; use your regular kitchen measuring tools.
• Plastic wrap: To chill the dough; any food-safe wrap will do.

Variations

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Coconut Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut along with the cherries for a tropical flair.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy the same deliciousness without gluten.
• Fruit Medley: Mix dried cranberries or raisins with the maraschino cherries for a delightful mix of flavors.
• Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips for an indulgent, rich taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the cookies with hot cocoa for a cozy holiday treat that warms the soul.
• Serve alongside a fruit platter to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
• Present on a decorative platter, dusted with extra powdered sugar for a festive look.
• Wrap in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for charming homemade gifts.
• Enjoy with a cup of spiced tea for a delightful afternoon break.

FAQs about Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Absolutely! You can bake your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread ahead and store them in an airtight container for up to a week. They also freeze nicely if you want to prepare them further in advance. Just thaw and enjoy!

What can I use instead of maraschino cherries? If you’re not a fan of maraschino cherries, you can swap them for dried cranberries or even chopped apricots. Each option will give a unique twist to your cookies!

How can I make these cookies more festive? To jazz up your cookies, consider adding red and green sprinkles on top before baking. You can also dip half of the cookie in chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts for a special touch!

Can I use salted butter? Yes, you can use salted butter in this recipe if that’s what you have on hand. Just reduce the added fine salt slightly to balance the flavors.

Are these cookies gluten-free? You can easily make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Enjoy the same festive taste without the gluten!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about baking Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread. The delightful aroma fills the air, wrapping you in warmth as you dip into the dough and roll those cheerful little balls. It’s a joyful experience that brings family together, whether they’re helping in the kitchen or eagerly waiting for the first bite. These cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they create moments of laughter and connection during the hustle and bustle of the season. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy every moment as you satisfy those taste buds with this festive recipe!

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