DESSERTS

Delicious Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

by Fatima Garcia

•

22 de January de 2026

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Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread is a delightful holiday treat that combines the rich buttery flavor of traditional shortbread with the sweet, tangy burst of maraschino cherries. These cookies are perfect for festive gatherings, adding a splash of color and flavor to your holiday cookie platter. They are not only easy to make but also offer a unique twist on classic shortbread cookies, making them a must-try this season!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

This Christmas cherry shortbread recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for those busy holiday baking marathons. You’ll love the rich, buttery flavor of the cookies, complemented by the delightful sweetness of maraschino cherries. Plus, they are visually appealing, adorned with festive red and green sprinkles, making them a hit at any gathering. These holiday maraschino cherry cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family, and they can also be packaged beautifully as gifts. The recipe yields about 24 cookies, ideal for holiday parties or cozy family evenings. Lastly, they are vegetarian-friendly, catering to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

Gather these items:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped (drained)
1 teaspoon salt
Optional: red and green sprinkles for decoration

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

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract until fully incorporated.
Step 4: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries gently, being careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Gently flatten each dough ball with the bottom of a glass or your fingertips.
Step 8: If desired, sprinkle a few red and green sprinkles on top of each cookie for a festive touch.
Step 9: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 10: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for the Best Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

Keep these in mind:

Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months, allowing you to prepare ahead for holiday events.
For a unique twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra warmth.
Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture when creaming.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

These cookies can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a warm cup of cocoa or tea. For an elegant touch, serve them on a beautiful platter alongside other festive shortbread with cherries or traditional Christmas cookies. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged in decorative boxes, perfect for spreading holiday cheer!

Delicious Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies - Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last about a week this way. If you want to prepare them in advance, consider freezing them. Simply bake and cool the cookies, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven briefly. This makes them perfect for meal prep during the busy holiday season!

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread

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

The secret lies in the butter quality and ensuring not to overmix the dough after adding the flour. This keeps the cookies tender and delicious, making them a standout among cherry-infused shortbread treats.

Can I make Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container or frozen. This is ideal for busy bakers who want to ensure they have treats ready for holiday gatherings.

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

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your butter is at the right temperature, and don’t skip chilling the dough if it feels too soft. This will help maintain the shape and texture of your shortbread cookies with a twist.

Variations of Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, consider adding white chocolate chips or nuts for added texture. You can also experiment with different extracts, such as peppermint or coconut, to create unique flavors that still celebrate the festive spirit. These variations will make your cherry shortbread variations for Christmas even more exciting and memorable!

For more festive recipes, check out our holiday baking ideas and tips for cookie decorating. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of shortbread, visit this informative article.