DESSERTS

Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread: 20 Festive Treats

by basmer

13 de November de 2025

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Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread is a festive treat that combines the buttery richness of shortbread with the sweet and tangy flavor of maraschino cherries, perfect for holiday celebrations. The vibrant color of the cherries makes these cookies not only delicious but visually appealing, adding a cheerful touch to your holiday cookie platter. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, this cookie recipe is sure to delight your family and friends during the festive season.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

This cookie is a holiday favorite for many reasons. First, it combines the buttery goodness of traditional shortbread with the unique sweetness of maraschino cherries, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Second, it is easy to make, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels. Additionally, these cookies are versatile; they can be served at holiday gatherings, gift-wrapped for friends, or enjoyed as a delightful afternoon treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of Christmas cherry shortbread cookies that everyone will love. Plus, they have a beautiful presentation that makes them perfect for any festive occasion, from cookie exchanges to family gatherings.

Ingredients for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

Gather these items:

225 grams unsalted butter, softened
65 grams powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
250 grams all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon fine salt
80 grams maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped
90 grams mini chocolate chips (optional)

How to Make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Blend in the vanilla extract until evenly combined.
Step 3: Gradually stir in the flour and salt, mixing only until the dough just comes together and no dry patches remain. Avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and, if using, the mini chocolate chips to distribute evenly throughout the dough.
Step 5: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes until firm.
Step 6: Preheat oven to 165°C. Roll chilled dough into 2.5 cm balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Flatten each gently with the base of a glass.
Step 7: Bake in preheated oven for 14-16 minutes, until edges are just barely golden and centres remain pale.
Step 8: Transfer cookies to wire racks. While still slightly warm, dust tops with additional powdered sugar. Allow to cool completely before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

Keep these in mind:

Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best texture.
Don’t overmix the dough to keep the cookies tender.
Chilling the dough is essential for proper shaping and texture.
Consider adding a pinch of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.
Use high-quality maraschino cherries for the best taste in your maraschino cherry cookies recipe.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

These delightful cookies can be served in various ways. They are perfect for holiday cookie platters alongside other treats. You can also pack them in festive tins as gifts for family and friends. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or hot chocolate for a cozy treat. Consider serving them at holiday parties as part of your maraschino cherry holiday baking ideas to impress your guests.

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

To store your cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 150°C for a few minutes. This will help restore their softness and flavor. These tips ensure that you can enjoy these festive maraschino cherry treats for an extended period.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread?

The secret lies in not overmixing the dough and ensuring your butter is soft enough to create a creamy texture. Using quality ingredients, like maraschino cherries and unsalted butter, will enhance the flavor of your holiday shortbread with cherries .

Can I make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to a week. This way, you can easily slice and bake fresh cookies when you’re ready for your holiday gathering or when the craving strikes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread?

To avoid mistakes, ensure that you measure your flour correctly and do not skip the chilling step. This will prevent your cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in perfectly shaped shortbread cookies with maraschino cherries .

Variations of Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread You Can Try

There are many ways to add a twist to your cookies. Try adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. Incorporating dried fruits can also enhance the flavor. For a chocolatey variation, dip half the cookie in melted chocolate for a festive touch. These variations will keep your holiday baking exciting and cater to different tastes. Enjoy experimenting with your cherry-infused shortbread biscuits .