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Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Delightful shortbread cookies featuring maraschino cherries and chocolate chips, perfect for holiday gatherings and gifting.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 130
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted butter – room temperature Soften before use.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract For flavor.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Sift before use.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup maraschino cherries – chopped Drain well on paper towels.
  • 2/3 cup chocolate chips

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Beat the softened butter in a large mixing bowl with a mixer until it's light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt, then gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture and knead the dough until it comes together.
  4. Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and chocolate chips, mixing gently until evenly distributed.
  5. Shape the dough into a log on cling film, press it firmly, wrap it, and refrigerate for about an hour.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Slice the chilled dough into round cookies and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
  4. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving platter.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container; they stay fresh for about a week. Consider adding almond extract for extra flavor. Drain cherries thoroughly to avoid a wet dough.