These Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are buttery, delicate, and loaded with sweet maraschino cherries. They’re the perfect treat for the holidays or any occasion when you want a pretty, delicious cookie!
📋 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 (drained and patted dry) 🍒
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice (optional) 🍒
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or candy melts (for drizzling or dipping, optional) 🍫
📝 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- Mix the butter and sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add vanilla and cherry juice:
- Mix in the vanilla extract and, if desired, the maraschino cherry juice for added cherry flavor and color.
- Incorporate the dry ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Add cherries:
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
2. Chill the Dough:
- Chill the dough:
- Form the dough into a log or flatten it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to slice or shape.
3. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Shape and Bake the Cookies:
- Shape the cookies:
- After the dough has chilled, roll it into 1-inch balls or slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as shortbread should remain light and tender.
5. Cool and Add White Chocolate (Optional):
- Cool the cookies:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dip or drizzle with white chocolate (optional):
- If desired, melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second increments, stirring until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or dip half of each cookie into the chocolate. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.
6. Serve:
- Enjoy:
- Serve these delightful maraschino cherry shortbread cookies with a cup of tea or coffee, or package them up for gifting!
⏱️ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
⏱️ Chilling Time: 1 hour
⏱️ Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 24-30 cookies
🔥 Calories: Approximately 100-120 kcal per cookie
These Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a delicious combination of buttery, crumbly shortbread and the sweet burst of cherries. Perfect for special occasions or as a festive holiday treat! 🍒🍪