Shortbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that everyone loves. But why not take it up a notch this Christmas with some delicious maraschino cherries? This recipe for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies is easy to follow and will have your taste buds singing with joy!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped (spread cherries on paper towel to drain well or you can use candied maraschino cherries)
- 2/3 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Start by mixing the flour and salt together in a bowl and set it aside.
- In a separate bowl, cream the unsalted softened butter with powdered sugar. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until it starts forming larger clumps.
- Stir in the chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Form the dough into a log shape, pressing it well to avoid crumbling when you slice the cookies. Aim for a log that is about 2 inches thick.
- Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours to firm up.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Take the chilled dough log out of the fridge and cut it into 1/4 or 1/3 inch thick slices. If the slices crumble, gently press them back together with your hands.
- Place the sliced cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave about an inch of space between each cookie.
- Bake the cookies for 10-15 minutes or until they just start to turn lightly golden brown on top.
- Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones or bringing to holiday gatherings. The combination of buttery shortbread, sweet maraschino cherries, and chocolate chips creates a delightful flavor that captures the spirit of the season. Enjoy making and eating these festive treats!
