Festive Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies – Buttery, Sweet & Easy to Make
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies bring back memories of cozy December evenings spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the sweet aroma of buttery cookies filled every corner of the house.
These festive cherry shortbread cookies became our family’s most requested holiday treat, combining the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture of traditional shortbread with bright pops of color from maraschino cherries.
The beauty of this maraschino cherry cookie recipe lies in its simplicity – using just eight basic ingredients to create something truly magical that captures the essence of Christmas morning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy christmas cookie recipe has saved my holiday season countless times when unexpected guests arrived or when I needed a last-minute contribution to cookie exchanges. The foolproof christmas cookies require no chilling time, no rolling pins, and absolutely no fancy techniques – just mix, shape, and bake. What makes these buttery holiday shortbread cookies special is how they strike the perfect balance between elegant presentation and effortless preparation.
I still remember the first time I made these for my daughter’s school holiday party. The teacher later told me that kids were asking if their parents could get the recipe because they’d never tasted anything quite like these tender, buttery cookies dotted with jewel-like cherries. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who usually avoids the kitchen, this recipe will make you look like a holiday baking expert.
Looking for the perfect meal to serve before these delightful cookies? Explore more quick & easy dinner recipes here to create a complete holiday menu that will impress your guests.
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter, softened | 1 cup | Room temperature for easy mixing |
| Powdered sugar | 1/2 cup | Plus extra for dusting |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Pure vanilla works best |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Sifted for lighter texture |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Enhances the buttery flavor |
| Maraschino cherries, chopped | 1/2 cup | Drained and patted dry |
| Mini chocolate chips | 1/2 cup | Optional but highly recommended |
| Extra powdered sugar | For dusting | Final decorative touch |
The magic of these holiday baking tips starts with quality ingredients – make sure your butter is properly softened and your cherries are well-drained to prevent soggy cookies. Find more delicious lunch ideas here to complement your holiday baking schedule with easy midday meals.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This lower temperature ensures your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies bake evenly without browning too quickly.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. This creates the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes shortbread special.
Step 3: Add Vanilla
Beat in the vanilla extract until well combined. The vanilla enhances the buttery flavor and complements the sweet cherry taste perfectly.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the sifted flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies, so stop as soon as the flour disappears.
Step 5: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate
Gently fold in the chopped, well-drained maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips using a wooden spoon or spatula. Make sure the cherries are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Gently press each ball to flatten slightly – they won’t spread much during baking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are set but not browned. The centers should still look slightly soft. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 8: Final Touch
Once completely cooled, dust your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies with powdered sugar for that beautiful, snow-dusted holiday appearance.
Exact Timing to make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 18-20 minutes per batch
- Cooling Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 48-50 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Active Working Time: 20 minutes
This timeline makes these cookies perfect for busy holiday schedules. You can have fresh, homemade Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies ready in under an hour from start to finish.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Cookie (1 piece) | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 145 | 7% |
| Total Fat | 8.2g | 11% |
| Saturated Fat | 5.1g | 26% |
| Cholesterol | 21mg | 7% |
| Sodium | 52mg | 2% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 17.3g | 6% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.6g | 2% |
| Total Sugars | 6.8g | – |
| Protein | 1.9g | 4% |
| Vitamin C | 0.3mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 8mg | 1% |
| Iron | 0.7mg | 4% |
Nutritional data based on USDA food composition database and recipe analysis. Values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.
Healthier Alternatives
Transform your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies into a more nutritious treat without sacrificing the beloved holiday flavors. These modifications allow you to enjoy festive baking while accommodating various dietary preferences and health goals.
| Original Ingredient | Healthier Alternative | Benefits | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Almond flour + oat flour blend | Higher protein, fiber, and healthy fats | 1:1 replacement |
| Unsalted butter | Coconut oil or avocado butter | Plant-based, heart-healthy fats | 3/4 cup replacement |
| Powdered sugar | Coconut sugar, powdered | Lower glycemic index, trace minerals | 1:1 replacement |
| Maraschino cherries | Dried cherries, chopped | No artificial dyes, more antioxidants | 1/2 cup replacement |
| Mini chocolate chips | Dark chocolate chips (70% cacao) | Higher antioxidants, less sugar | 1:1 replacement |
| Regular recipe | Gluten-free version | Celiac-friendly, easier digestion | Use certified GF flour blend |
For those seeking even more dessert inspiration, explore more delicious desserts here to discover additional holiday treats that can be adapted for healthier baking.
Serving Suggestions
Holiday Presentation Ideas
Arrange your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies on vintage holiday plates or in decorative tins lined with festive tissue paper. The bright red cherries create a natural Christmas color scheme that looks stunning when paired with fresh greenery or gold accents. For cookie exchanges, package them in clear cellophane bags tied with red and green ribbons – the colorful cookies become their own beautiful decoration.
Perfect Pairings
These buttery shortbread cookies pair wonderfully with hot chocolate, spiced apple cider, or a cup of earl grey tea during afternoon holiday gatherings. For evening entertaining, serve them alongside vanilla ice cream or create an elegant dessert board featuring these cookies, chocolate truffles, and seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds and orange slices.
Gift-Giving Made Easy
Stack your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies in mason jars layered with parchment paper, or arrange them in decorative cookie tins for thoughtful homemade gifts. Teachers, neighbors, and coworkers will appreciate receiving these festive treats, and the recipe is easily doubled or tripled for larger gift-giving needs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Inadequate Cherry Preparation
The most critical error when making Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies is failing to properly drain and dry the cherries. Wet cherries will release moisture during baking, creating soggy spots and potentially causing the cookies to spread unevenly. Always drain cherries thoroughly, then pat them completely dry with paper towels and let them air dry for 10-15 minutes before chopping and adding to the dough.
Overworking the Dough
Shortbread’s signature tender texture comes from minimal mixing once the flour is added. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough, chewy cookies instead of the desired melt-in-your-mouth consistency. Mix just until the flour disappears, then stop immediately.
Incorrect Baking Temperature
Using too high a temperature will cause the cookies to brown before they’re properly set, while too low a temperature won’t create the right texture. Stick to 325°F and watch for the edges to become set but not browned – the centers should still look slightly soft when you remove them from the oven.
Storing Tips
Room Temperature Storage
Store your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together, especially if you’ve dusted them with powdered sugar. Keep them away from strong-smelling foods as shortbread can absorb odors easily.
Freezing for Extended Storage
These cookies freeze beautifully for up to three months, making them perfect for advance holiday preparation. Place cooled cookies in freezer-safe containers or bags, again layering with parchment paper. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes – they’ll taste just as fresh as the day you baked them.
Make-Ahead Dough Option
The cookie dough can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before shaping and baking. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy holiday schedules when you want fresh cookies but limited prep time.
FAQs
Can I make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies without chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are delicious with just the cherries. The chocolate chips add extra sweetness and visual appeal, but the cookies maintain their classic shortbread texture and festive cherry flavor without them. You can substitute chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or simply increase the cherry amount to 3/4 cup for more cherry flavor throughout.
How do I prevent my Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies from becoming too crumbly?
If your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are too crumbly, ensure your butter is properly softened (not melted) and that you’re measuring flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup rather than scooping. The dough should hold together when gently pressed. If it’s still too dry, add one tablespoon of softened butter at a time until the dough coheres properly.
Can I substitute fresh cherries for maraschino cherries in Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies?
While fresh cherries can be used, they’ll create a different flavor profile and texture in your Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Fresh cherries contain more moisture and less sweetness than maraschino cherries, so you’ll need to chop them finely, remove pits completely, and possibly add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the dough. Dried cherries work better as a substitute and won’t affect the cookie’s moisture content.
How far in advance can I bake Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies for holiday parties?
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies can be baked up to one week before your holiday party when stored properly in airtight containers at room temperature. For maximum freshness, bake them 2-3 days ahead and dust with powdered sugar just before serving. If you’re planning further ahead, freeze the baked cookies for up to three months or prepare and freeze the shaped dough balls, then bake directly from frozen (adding 2-3 extra minutes to baking time).
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth holiday favorites with bright pops of cherry and chocolate. This easy cookie recipe is perfect for Christmas cookie exchanges, festive dessert tables, or quick baking sessions during the holidays.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped and patted dry
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- Extra powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream softened butter and powdered sugar with an electric mixer for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Beat in vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually mix in sifted flour and salt just until combined; do not overmix.
- Fold in chopped maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on baking sheets. Gently flatten each ball.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until edges are set but not browned.
- Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
- Once cooled completely, dust with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
Notes
For best results, ensure cherries are well-drained to prevent excess moisture. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. These make excellent gifts and freeze beautifully for holiday prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: recipes cookies, recipes dessert, recipes christmas, recipes baking, recipes easy
