Get ready to elevate your holiday baking game with our irresistible Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies! Packed with the perfect balance of buttery goodness, sweet maraschino cherries, and rich chocolate chips, these cookies are a festive delight for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a cozy treat, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. Whip up a batch today and spread the joy of the season with every delicious bite!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped (drained well on paper towels or candied)
- 2/3 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the butter with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
- Sift together the flour and salt, then gradually add to the butter mixture, kneading until a dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Chill the Dough:
- Transfer the dough onto cling film, shaping it into a log. Press gently to compact the dough, then wrap tightly in the cling film.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least an hour to firm up.
Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice into rounds.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving platter.
- Serve and enjoy the deliciously festive flavor of Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies!
Notes:
- If the butter is too firm, microwave it briefly in intervals until softened but not melted completely.
- Opt for small chocolate chips or drops for easier slicing of the dough.
- For best results, chill the dough thoroughly before slicing and baking.
- If the dough becomes crumbly when slicing, gently press the cookies together with your fingers.
FAQs:
Can I use other types of cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
- While maraschino cherries lend a unique sweetness to these cookies, you can certainly experiment with other varieties for a different flavor profile.
Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
- Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough log for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option?
- Almond flour may alter the texture of the cookies, but you can try it for a gluten-free version. Adjust the quantity as needed for the desired consistency.
How should I store the baked cookies?
- Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for extra decoration?
- Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with toppings like melted chocolate, icing, or sprinkles to add a festive touch to your cookies.
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