Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a truly festive and fun treat, I absolutely have to share my Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe with you. These cookies are a beautiful mix of buttery shortbread dotted with bright, juicy maraschino cherries and melty chocolate chips — the combo is just irresistible! When I first tried this recipe, it quickly became a holiday favorite in my house, and I’m certain you’ll fall in love with them just the same.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe works together to create that tender, buttery base and those bursts of sweetness you’ll adore. I like to use quality butter and fresh maraschino cherries that I’ve patted dry to avoid soggy cookies.

• Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter is key so it creams easily, giving your cookies that perfect texture.
• Powdered Sugar: It blends smoothly without graininess, helping keep the dough tender.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, classic flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries and chocolate.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the dough creating that signature shortbread crumb.
• Salt: Just a touch to balance all the sweetness.
• Maraschino Cherries: Chop them finely and make sure you drain them well (I lay them on paper towels) so your dough doesn’t get too wet.
• Chocolate Chips: Small chips work best so every bite gets a little chocolate surprise without overwhelming the cherries.

Variations

I love how versatile this Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe is. I’ve tried a few twists over the years, and feel free to experiment to match your taste or occasion.

• White Chocolate Instead of Milk Chocolate: I personally swapped chocolate chips for white chocolate once, and the creamy sweetness paired beautifully with the cherries.
• Almond Extract Boost: Adding a teaspoon of almond extract gives the cookies a lovely nutty undertone that complements the cherry flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend — just be sure to chill the dough well to help it hold together.
• Cherry and Nuts: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and texture.

How to Make Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter, Sugar, and Vanilla

Start by beating your room temperature butter with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy — this usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes on medium speed. This step is crucial because it incorporates air and gives your cookies that tender texture. If your butter isn’t soft yet, cut it into cubes and pop it in the microwave for about 10 seconds; just don’t melt it completely!

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients and Form Dough

Mix the all-purpose flour with salt and sift the mixture into the butter mixture. I find sifting helps avoid lumps and creates a finer dough. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to knead everything until combined. Then gently fold in your chopped, well-drained maraschino cherries and the chocolate chips — don’t overwork the dough here to keep the cookies tender.

Step 3: Chill and Shape the Dough Log

Place the dough onto a piece of cling film and form it into a firm log, pressing gently with your hands for an even thickness. Wrap it tightly and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. Chilling helps the dough firm up so when you slice the cookies, they hold their shape perfectly without crumbling. I’ve learned this step is a game changer for shortbread!

Step 4: Slice and Bake

Once chilled, cut your dough log into roughly 1/4-inch thick rounds. It’s easiest to slice with a sharp knife, and if the dough feels crumbly, just hold the cookie together with your fingers as you transfer it. Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 15 minutes. You’re aiming for the cookies to be set but not browned; they should have a delicate pale color and feel firm when you gently press.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before moving them. This cooling time helps them firm up to the perfect shortbread texture. Then enjoy! I promise these cookies transport me to holiday mornings, coffee in hand, sharing with friends and family.

How to Serve Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I like to dust these cookies lightly with powdered sugar just before serving for a snow-kissed look that matches the holiday vibe perfectly. Sometimes I top a few with a tiny dollop of white chocolate ganache and a half cherry to make them extra special — it’s a little flourish that wows guests every time.

Side Dishes

These shortbread cookies pair beautifully with a simple cup of black coffee or a rich hot chocolate, especially on chilly evenings. I also like serving them alongside a cheese platter with mild cheeses, fresh fruit, and nuts for a festive dessert board that everyone loves.

Creative Ways to Present

One year, I arranged these cookies around a holiday wreath made from pine branches and cranberries for a stunning centerpiece. Another fun idea is to package them in clear cellophane bags tied with colorful ribbon to give as thoughtful homemade gifts. They really catch the eye and make people smile before they even take a bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, keep them fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. I’ve found layering them between sheets of parchment paper helps avoid sticking or breakage. They stay soft yet crumbly — just how you want shortbread!

Freezing

I like to freeze the dough log before slicing — just wrap it tightly in cling film and place in a freezer bag. When you’re ready, pop it in the fridge overnight to thaw slightly, then slice and bake as usual. This makes having fresh cookies on demand a breeze, especially during busy holidays.

Reheating

To warm up leftover cookies, I gently toast them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes — this refreshes the buttery texture without drying them out. Avoid microwaving since shortbread can get chewy if heated too fast.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope after making this Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe, you’ll discover, just like I did, how something so simple can bring such joy and festive spirit. I still remember the first time I baked a batch for my family—seeing everyone’s smiles made all those little baking moments totally worth it. Whether you’re gifting them or sneaking a few with your afternoon tea, these cookies are bound to be a favorite. Give it a go and treat yourself—you deserve it!

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