Oh, the joyful chaos of December! An explosion of lights, scents, and sounds that swirl together like spices in a masterful curry. Just as you’d wander through a bustling street market, listening to the laughter that fills the air, get ready to embark on a sweet journey with these Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Imagine biting into a cookie that screams festive cheer—a delightful blend of buttery goodness, cherries, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar that makes it rain holiday vibes.
So, why make this recipe? Picture this: You’re hosting a holiday gathering, and your friends are sharing their tales of adventure, from ice-skating in Vienna to sipping hot cocoa in the Alps. Suddenly, you serve these dazzling cookies, and BOOM! The world slows down, conversations become lively, and taste buds dance as everyone agrees that these are simply unforgettable. Plus, let’s be honest, who could resist the allure of those vibrant cherries and a hint of chocolate?
How to make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, channel your inner Beatle and cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar. Mix it until you reach a dreamy, smooth, creamy texture that will make you want to dive right in. But please, resist the urge!
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Add Vanilla: Pour in that aromatic vanilla extract, a pure slap of sweetness that whispers "the holidays are here" with every swirl.
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Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually sprinkle in the flour and salt. Mix just until you can barely see the flour in there. Overmixing is a party foul, folks—let that dough keep its delicate persona!
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Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips: It’s time for the cherry on top (or rather, in the dough)—fold those chopped maraschino cherries in gently, along with those optional mini chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous. They add a pop of color and a hint of decadence that takes these cookies to the next level!
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Chill the Dough: Wrap your colorful creation in plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. Just like any good explorer, a little downtime enhances the experience and makes shaping the cookies a breeze.
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Preheat and Shape: Set your oven to a warm 325°F (165°C)—the air will soon be filled with the aroma of holiday magic! Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls, and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets. Channel your inner artist and lightly flatten each one with the bottom of a glass.
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Bake: Slide those beauties into the oven and let them bake for 14-16 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; we don’t want a golden tan, just a light golden edge while keeping that tender texture intact!
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Cool and Dust: Once you’re met with tantalizing cookie perfection, remove them from the oven and place them aside to cool for a few moments. While they’re still warm, sprinkle that extra powdered sugar on top, making them even more Instagram-worthy!
How to serve Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Serve these dazzling delights on a festive platter, surrounded by twinkling lights and laughter. Pair them with a steaming mug of hot chocolate or even a spicy chai latte for an elevated experience. If you’re feeling extra hospitable, whip up a simple cherry compote as a dip for those who enjoy pairing their sweets with a little more sweetness!
How to store Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Store those gorgeous cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—if you can resist the smell of them long enough to let them last!
Tips to make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
- Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened but not too melty—room temperature is your friend here!
- Don’t Skip the Chill: Chilling the dough is crucial for that crumbly goodness. Don’t rush it; good things come to those who wait.
- Add a Splash of Color: You can tint the cookie dough with a few drops of food coloring if you’re feeling festive. Why not create a Cherry Red Cookie?
Variations
How about embracing a little adventure? Substitute half the flour with ground nuts for a nutty twist, or swirl in a tablespoon of peppermint extract for an utterly festive vibe. Got some orange zest lying around? Toss that in for a citrusy dance party!
FAQs
1. Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Roll the balls first, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a bag—bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready for a sweet treat.
2. What if I can’t find maraschino cherries?
Don’t worry. You can substitute with dried cherries or even cranberries for a tangy twist—nature’s candy can come from anywhere, right?
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
For sure! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend while keeping an eye on the texture—you may need to adjust the amounts slightly!
So, are you ready to embark on this delightful culinary adventure? Your tastebuds are waiting, and the magical world of festive flavor is just a bake away. Grab that mixing bowl and let the sweet escapade begin!
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until the flour is barely visible.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and optional mini chocolate chips.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Lightly flatten each cookie with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 14-16 minutes, monitoring to avoid overbaking. They should have a light golden edge.
- Once baked, allow cookies to cool briefly before dusting with extra powdered sugar.