### Prep Time
15 minutes
### Cook Time
10 minutes
### Total Time
25 minutes
### Servings
24 cookies
When the holiday season rolls around, the joyous spirit calls for delightful baking in the kitchen. One of the most festive treats to whip up is the **Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies**. These cookies combine rich, buttery flavors with bursts of bright sweetness from Maraschino cherries, making them a perfect treat for family gatherings, office parties, or cozy evenings at home. Not only are they incredibly delicious, but they also look stunning, showcasing beautiful red specks among the buttery dough — an aesthetic that truly captures the warmth of the season.
In this guide, you’ll discover how to make these festive shortbread cookies from scratch, including the key ingredients, step-by-step baking instructions, and a few creative variations. Whether you are an experienced baker or a novice just stepping into the world of cookie-making, these Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are both easy and rewarding.
What Are Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies?
**Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies** are a delightful twist on the classic shortbread cookie. Originating from Scotland, shortbread is known for its simple ingredients — typically including butter, sugar, and flour — which yield a crumbly texture and a rich flavor. The charm of these cookies lies in the addition of finely chopped Maraschino cherries, which contribute both moisture and a pop of color, making them a festive treat suitable for any holiday or celebration.
The texture of these cookies is short and crisp, melting in your mouth while the sweet, fruity undertone of the cherries creates a contrasting flavor profile that perfectly balances the buttery richness. Often, you will find them presented at holiday gatherings or bake sales, as they not only taste fantastic but also add a cheery element to any dessert table with their vibrant appearance.
Why You’ll Love This Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe
There are countless reasons to love these Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. For starters, they provide a delightful fusion of flavor and texture that is both nostalgic and comforting. The buttery biscuit pairs marvelously with the sweet, tangy cherries, ensuring that each bite is a taste of joy.
Another reason this recipe stands out is its effortless preparation. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, even beginners can turn out a batch of impressive cookies with very little hassle. Moreover, these cookies are versatile; they can easily be customized for other occasions by incorporating different mix-ins or frostings.
Lastly, let’s not overlook the cost-effectiveness of this recipe. With only a handful of ingredients, you can create a large batch of cookies that make excellent gifts or party favors, thereby saving money while spreading cheer. They offer a visually stunning option that is sure to impress without breaking the bank.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect batch of Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– **1 cup unsalted butter, softened**: The star of any great shortbread cookie, butter adds richness and flavor.
– **1/2 cup granulated sugar**: Sweetens the cookies; you can also use powdered sugar for a slightly different texture.
– **2 cups all-purpose flour**: The base of the cookie dough, providing structure.
– **1/4 teaspoon salt**: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**: Adds depth and fragrance to the cookies.
– **1/2 cup Maraschino cherries, finely chopped**: The highlight ingredient, these add sweetness, moisture, and color to the cookies.
– **Optional: Sprinkles or powdered sugar for garnish**: To elevate the holiday spirit and presentation.
### Ingredient Notes
– **Unsalted Butter**: Helps control the salt content, allowing you to adjust flavors according to your preference. Be sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
– **Granulated Sugar**: While this is the traditional sugar for shortbread, using powdered sugar gives a softer texture. Experiment to see which you prefer!
– **Flour**: Ensure you measure the flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off for the best results.
– **Maraschino Cherries**: Unique for their bright color and sweetness, you can use either regular or sugar-free cherries as a healthier alternative.
How to Make Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Creating these Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies is an enjoyable process, and you’ll love how easy it is! Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieve cookie perfection:
1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the cookies bake evenly.
2. **Cream the Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened **unsalted butter** and **granulated sugar** together with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes or until the mixture is light and fluffy. Take your time here; creaming the ingredients properly incorporates air, which will give your cookies a lighter texture.
3. **Add Vanilla Extract**: Next, mix in **1 teaspoon of vanilla extract** and blend just enough to combine. The vanilla will help enrich the buttery flavor of the cookies.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, whisk together **2 cups of all-purpose flour** and **1/4 teaspoon of salt**. Gradually add this mixture into the cream mixture. Using a spatula or your hands, gently mix until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
5. **Incorporate the Cherries**: After the dough is formed, fold in the **1/2 cup of finely chopped Maraschino cherries**. Make sure they are well-distributed throughout the dough without mashing them too much, ensuring bursts of cherry in every bite.
6. **Form the Cookies**: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your fingers or the back of a fork to gently flatten each ball slightly, shaping them into nice rounds.
7. **Bake the Cookies**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden. The centers may look underbaked, which is just right — they will firm up as they cool.
8. **Cool the Cookies**: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the flavors to set.
9. **Garnish (optional)**: If desired, while the cookies are cooling, you can sprinkle them with powdered sugar or festive sprinkles to enhance their appearance before serving.
These cookies can be enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored in an airtight container for several days. Their flavor will deepen as they sit, making them even more delicious.
5 Variations & Substitutions
Shortbread cookies are highly adaptable, and you can get creative with a few tweaks. Here are some fun variations to try:
1. **Chocolate Chip Shortbread**: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet chocolaty twist. This variation balances the sweetness of the Maraschino cherries with a rich chocolatey flavor perfect for chocolate lovers.
2. **Coconut Cherry Shortbread**: Incorporate 1/2 cup of shredded coconut along with the cherries. This tropical take brightens up the flavors and provides a lovely chewy texture that complements the crispness of shortbread.
3. **Lemon Zest Cherry Shortbread**: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a refreshing citrus taste. The acidity will counterbalance the sweetness of the cherries, creating a light and bright cookie perfect for spring or summer gatherings.
4. **Nutty Cherry Variation**: Mix in 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans. These will add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the richness of the butter in the shortbread.
5. **Gluten-Free Version**: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it’s designed for baking to achieve the best results. This option allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy these festive cookies without worry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can sometimes be a finicky process, and it’s easy to run into pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies:
– **Overmixing the Dough**: It’s crucial to combine the ingredients until just mixed to prevent developing gluten, which makes cookies tough. When blending in the flour, mix it only until you no longer see dry flour in the bowl.
– **Using Cold Butter**: Cold butter doesn’t properly cream with sugar, leading to a denser cookie. Always make sure your butter is at room temperature for a light and tender bite.
– **Not Measuring Ingredients Properly**: Baking is a science, so accurate measurement is critical. Too much flour can make cookies dry while too little can lead to spreading. Use a kitchen scale for precision when in doubt.
– **Skipping the Chilling Step**: If the dough seems too soft or sticky, consider chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and achieve a crisp outer edge.
– **Not Preheating the Oven**: If you place cookies in an oven that hasn’t reached the desired temperature, the baking time will be off, affecting the end result. Always ensure your oven reaches the correct temperature before baking.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
To keep your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies fresh and flavorful, proper storage is key:
– **Storage**: Allow cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about 5 to 7 days. To maintain their softness, place a slice of bread in the container – this will help keep humidity levels balanced.
– **Freezing**: If you want to prepare these cookies ahead of time, you can freeze the dough or the baked cookies. For dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
– **Freezing Baked Cookies**: To freeze baked cookies, let them cool completely. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
– **Reheating**: To enjoy cookies fresh from the oven again, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps restore the original texture, making them feel freshly baked.
Frequently Asked Questions
**1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of Maraschino cherries?**
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Make sure to pit and chop them finely. However, you may want to reduce the amount of sugar as fresh cherries are less sweet than Maraschino cherries. Baking times may also vary slightly due to the moisture content.
**2. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much while baking?**
To prevent excess spreading, ensure your butter is softened but not melted when mixing. Additionally, using chilled dough can help maintain the shape of your cookies during baking. You might also consider chilling the formed cookies for about 30 minutes before placing them in the oven.
**3. Can I make these cookies vegan?**
Certainly! To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative or coconut oil. You’ll also need to replace sugar with a vegan alternative if desired, and ensure that the Maraschino cherries are free from animal products.
**4. What should I do if the cookie dough feels too crumbly?**
If your dough seems too crumbly and isn’t holding together, you can add a tablespoon of cold water or a non-dairy milk sparingly until it becomes manageable. Be careful not to add too much liquid, as it can alter the cookie’s texture.
**5. Can I use this dough to make bar cookies?**
Absolutely! Instead of rolling them into individual cookies, you can press the dough into a greased and parchment-lined baking dish. Bake according to the recipe and allow it to cool fully before cutting it into squares or rectangles. This method can be a time-saver when making large batches.
In conclusion, Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are an excellent addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Their delightful flavor, ease of preparation, and romantic presentation make them a treat you’ll come back to year after year. Whether enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or gifted to friends and family, these cookies are sure to warm hearts and spread cheer. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious batch of holiday spirit in cookie form. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe as you like, making it your own! Happy baking!
[Read also: Creative Cookie Recipes for Every Occasion]
