Introduction to Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
If you're looking for a festive treat to brighten up your holiday gatherings, look no further than Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. These delightful cookies are not only visually appealing with their vibrant red cherry bits, but they're also incredibly easy to whip up, making them a fantastic option for busy cooks.
Why These Cookies Are Perfect for the Holiday Season?
The holiday season is synonymous with sharing and joy, and what better way to spread cheer than with freshly baked cookies? The buttery richness of shortbread paired with the sweet and slightly tangy maraschino cherries creates an irresistible flavor combination that embodies the spirit of Christmas.
Shortbread cookies are a classic that can be enjoyed by both young and old, and the addition of cherries gives a modern twist that sparks conversation. You could even pair them with a hot mug of cocoa or a warm cup of herbal tea while catching up with friends.
This recipe yields 24 cookies, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a festive addition to cookie trays. Plus, the vibrant colors of the cherries add a festive touch to any table setting. So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a batch of these delightful treats that will surely become a holiday favorite!
For more inspiration on festive baking, check out this article on holiday desserts.
Ingredients for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
If you’re looking to add some festive cheer to your holiday baking, these Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are an absolute must! Below, I list the essential ingredients that make these cookies a delicious addition to any holiday spread.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter – Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- ½ cup powdered sugar – This gives the cookies a lovely sweetness and smooth texture.
- ½ tablespoon vanilla extract – A dash of vanilla enhances the flavor beautifully.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of your dough.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
- ¾ cup maraschino cherries – Chop these and make sure to drain them well. This adds a splash of color and flavor!
- ⅔ cup chocolate chips – These provide that chocolatey richness that pairs perfectly with the cherries.
Are you ready to get your holiday baking on? These simple ingredients will help you whip up a batch of festive goodness in no time! For more tips on integrating flavors, check out this guide on baking with fruits.
Preparing Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Baking during the festive season is like creating magic in your kitchen, especially when those treats are as delightful as Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies! These cookies not only taste fantastic but also add a pop of color to your holiday spread. Let's dive into the preparation steps that will have your home filled with the sweet smells of the season.
Gather your ingredients
Before you start mixing and baking, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready. For our Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies, you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup maraschino cherries (chopped and well-drained)
- ⅔ cup chocolate chips
Make sure you chop the maraschino cherries and spread them on a paper towel to drain before using them to prevent excess moisture in your dough.
Mix the flour and salt
In a separate bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour and salt. This step not only ensures that the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour but also helps in developing the texture of your cookies. Setting this bowl aside gives you a clean slate for the next step.
Cream the butter and sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into your dough, giving it that classic shortbread texture you love. Add in the vanilla extract and mix just until combined.
Combine the dry and wet ingredients
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Gradually incorporate your flour mixture into the creamed butter and sugar. Mix until the dough starts to clump together. You’re looking for a consistency that holds its shape but isn’t overly sticky.
Fold in the cherries and chocolate chips
Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and chocolate chips into the dough. This step is where your cookies get their festive flair! Make sure they are evenly distributed for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Form the dough and chill
Shape your dough into a log, about 2 inches thick. This is crucial—if you don’t press it well, the cookies may crumble when you slice them. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together and firms up the dough for slicing.
Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). While that's heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup and ensures your cookies won’t stick.
Slice and place the cookies on the sheet
Once your dough has chilled, remove it from the fridge and slice it into ¼ to ⅓ inch thick pieces. If any slices crumble, don’t panic! Just press them back together with your hands. Place the sliced cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch between them for spreading.
Bake to perfection
Pop those beauties in the oven and watch the magic unfold! Bake your cookies for about 10 to 15 minutes or until they just start to turn lightly golden brown on top. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is absolutely heavenly.
Let your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Trust me, these cookies will quickly become a cherished holiday tradition in your home!
For further holiday baking inspiration, you might want to check out The Spruce Eats for more festive recipes that will delight your friends and family. Happy baking!
Variations on Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Red and green maraschino cherry cookies
For a festive twist, mix red and green maraschino cherries into your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. This not only adds visual appeal but also a delightful flavor contrast. Just ensure you chop them finely and drain well to avoid excess moisture. These vibrant cookies will surely brighten up your holiday cookie platter!
Nutty shortbread variations
Looking for a crunchy texture? Try adding nuts like pecans or walnuts to your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet cherries. Just chop them coarsely and fold them into the dough. You could even opt for almond extract instead of vanilla for an extra layer of flavor. This simple addition can elevate your shortbread to a whole new level!
Feel free to explore these variations and make this classic recipe your own!
Baking Notes for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
When you're getting into the festive spirit and baking up a batch of Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies, here are some handy tips to ensure success:
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Chilling the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the cookies hold their shape. If you’re short on time, chill for at least an hour.
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Cherry Drainage: Make sure to thoroughly drain your maraschino cherries on a paper towel. Excess moisture can affect the dough's consistency.
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Slice with Care: If the dough crumbles when slicing, don’t worry! Just press it back together gently until it holds.
For detailed insights on cookie consistency, consider checking resources like the King Arthur Baking Company. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
When it comes to elevating your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies, a touch of creativity can go a long way. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to impress your guests this holiday season:
Pair with a Cozy Beverage
These buttery cookies complement a steaming cup of hot cocoa or a spiced apple cider beautifully. The sweetness of the cookies enhances the rich flavors of these drinks, making for a comforting holiday treat.
Add a Festive Platter
Arrange your cookies on a colorful platter with some fresh cranberries, nuts, and sprigs of mint. This not only adds a festive touch but also creates a beautiful centerpiece for your dessert table.
Gift to Loved Ones
Consider packaging these lovely cookies in clear bags tied with festive ribbons or in decorative tins for a personal touch. Sharing homemade cookies is a heartfelt way to spread joy during the holiday season.
For more creative ideas, you can check out resources on the art of gifting homemade treats.
These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies not only taste amazing but also offer a wonderful opportunity to share the magic of the season!
Tips for Making Perfect Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Creating delightful Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies can be quite easy with a few handy tips. Here’s how you can elevate your baking game:
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Use Chopped Cherries Wisely: Make sure to drain your maraschino cherries thoroughly on a paper towel. This will prevent excessive moisture from affecting the dough and help maintain the cookies' structure.
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Chill the Dough: Allow the formed log of dough to chill for at least 1–2 hours. This step not only firms up the dough but also enhances the flavors, resulting in a tastier cookie!
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. You'll want them just turning lightly golden brown on top for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
By following these simple tips, you’ll impress your loved ones with these festive treats! Enjoy baking!
Time details for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Preparation time
The prep time for these delightful Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies is about 25 minutes. It’s a straightforward process, perfect for baking enthusiasts and beginners alike!
Baking time
Once your dough is ready and sliced, the baking takes approximately 10–15 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you're looking for that lovely, light golden brown on top!
Total time
From start to finish, including chilling the dough, you’ll want to set aside about 2 to 2.5 hours. Most of that is just letting the dough chill, which means you can kick back while waiting!
For more baking tips and holiday recipes, check out The Spruce Eats or Bigger Bolder Baking. Enjoy the process and happy baking!
Nutritional Information for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
When whipping up a batch of these delightful Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies, it’s always good to know what’s on your plate. Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile per cookie:
- Calories: Approximately 130 calories
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 50mg
These treats are a flavorful addition to your holiday celebrations! For more detailed nutrition points, consider checking out resources from the USDA or NutritionData for insights into your favorite ingredients. Enjoy indulging in these beautiful cookies that bring warmth and joy to your festive gatherings!
FAQs about Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
How do I make these cookies more festive?
Enhancing the festive flair of your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies can be a fun task! Consider adding colorful sprinkles or a drizzle of white chocolate on top for that extra sparkle. You could also incorporate festive spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough, or even add a hint of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
While fresh cherries can be a delicious alternative, they contain more moisture, which may alter the texture of your cookies. If you decide to use fresh cherries, ensure you pit and chop them finely, and consider reducing the amount of butter slightly to compensate for the additional moisture. For more tips, check out this cherry baking guide.
What's the best way to store these cookies?
To keep your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Conclusion on Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Indulging in Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies brings a delightful blend of buttery richness and festive sweetness to your holiday celebrations. They're not just cookies; they're a charming tradition that your friends and family will cherish. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and spread some joy this season!
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Equipment
- oven
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- plastic wrap
- Mixing bowl
- whisk
Ingredients
Cooked Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup maraschino cherries chopped and drained
- ⅔ cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Baking Instructions
- Mix flour and salt, set aside.
- Cream 1 cup unsalted softened butter with ½ cup powdered sugar, mix in vanilla.
- Add flour and salt mixture and mix until it starts forming larger clumps.
- Mix in chocolate chips and maraschino cherries.
- Form the dough into a log and wrap it in plastic wrap, chill for at least 1-2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 325 F and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the log into ¼ or ⅓ inch thick slices and place on baking sheet.
- Bake the cookies for 10-15 minutes until slightly golden brown.
- Let them cool for 5 minutes on a baking sheet before transferring to a rack to cool completely.
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