Irresistible cherry shortbread cookies are festive and flavorful, combining buttery shortbread with maraschino cherries and optional mini chocolate chips.
1. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. 3. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined.
4. 4. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips (if using).
5. 5. 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. 6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. 7. 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. 8. Enjoy these festive shortbread cookies with a cup of tea, hot cocoa, or your favorite holiday beverage.
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.
Keywords: Christmas, Cookies, Shortbread
Find it online: https://www.basterecipes.com/cherry-shortbread-cookies/