Bake Irresistible cherry shortbread cookies Today!

The holiday season is a time for baking up batches of delectable treats to share with loved ones. And when it comes to Christmas cookies, few are as festive and flavorful as these cherry shortbread cookies. With their buttery shortbread base, pops of sweet maraschino cherries, and optional bursts of mini chocolate chips, these cookies are a true delight for the senses.

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Ingredients for cherry shortbread cookies

To make these irresistible Christmas cookies, you’ll need just a handful of simple 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

The butter provides a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the powdered sugar and vanilla extract lend a delicate sweetness. The all-purpose flour and a touch of salt create the classic shortbread base. And of course, the star of the show – the chopped maraschino cherries – add a festive pop of color and a subtly sweet, slightly tart flavor. The optional mini chocolate chips take these cookies to the next level, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.

How to Bakecherry shortbread cookies

Making these cherry shortbread cookiesis a simple process that yields truly impressive results. Follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined.
4. Fold in Cherries & Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips (if using).
5. Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten the cookies slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
6. Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool & Dust: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with extra powdered sugar once completely cooled.
8. Serve: Enjoy these festive shortbread cookies with a cup of tea, hot cocoa, or your favorite holiday beverage.

Tips for Perfect cherry shortbread cookies

To ensure your cherry shortbread cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:

• Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture.
• Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies.
• Use a light touch when flattening the cookies – you don’t want to compress them too much.
• Consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract or the zest of an orange for extra flavor.
• Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Creative Serving Suggestions

These cherry shortbread cookies are the perfect addition to any holiday gathering or cookie exchange. Serve them on a festive platter alongside other seasonal treats, or package them up in gift boxes or bags to share with friends and family. They also make a delightful accompaniment to a warm cup of tea or hot cocoa, and you can even crumble them over vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Peppermint Bark Cookies
• Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
• Chocolate-Dipped Coconut Macaroons

FAQs Aboutcherry shortbread cookies

Can I use fresh or dried cherries instead of maraschino cherries? While maraschino cherries provide a unique flavor and vibrant color, you can certainly use fresh or dried cherries as a substitute. Just be aware that the texture and sweetness may vary slightly.

How should I store the cookies to keep them fresh? Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months, then thaw and bake as needed.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free or vegan? To make these cookies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan version, use a vegan butter substitute and omit the mini chocolate chips (or use dairy-free chocolate chips).

Can I add extra flavorings like almond extract or citrus zest? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other flavors to make these cookies your own. A teaspoon of almond extract or the zest of an orange or lemon would be a delicious addition.

Conclusion

These cherry shortbread cookies are a true holiday delight, combining the classic flavors of buttery shortbread with the festive pop of maraschino cherries. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday party, a cookie exchange, or simply to enjoy at home, these cookies are sure to bring a little extra joy to the season. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a batch of these irresistible treats that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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