🎄Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies 🍒
Presentation & Short Story: These delightful Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are like a festive hug for your taste buds! Picture this: a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread infused with the sweetness of maraschino cherries and the indulgence of chocolate chips. Each bite transports you to a cozy holiday scene, where laughter fills the air and the scent of freshly baked treats lingers. Whether you’re gifting them to loved ones or indulging in a quiet moment with a cup of cocoa, these cookies are sure to spark joy and spread Christmas cheer!
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 (spread cherries on paper towel to drain well or you can use dried maraschino cherries)
- 2/3 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Mix flour and salt, then set aside.
- Cream 1 cup unsalted softened butter with 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and mix in vanilla.
- Add the flour and salt mixture and mix until it starts forming larger clumps.
- Mix in chocolate chips and maraschino cherries.
- Form the dough into a log and press it well (the log should be about 2 inches thick). Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the log into 1/4 or 1/3 inch thick slices (if the slices crumble, press them back together with your hands) and place them onto the baking sheet with one inch of space between.
- Bake the cookies for 10–15 minutes (until they just start to turn lightly golden brown on top).
- Let them cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a rack to cool completely.
Notes:
- Ensure the maraschino cherries are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
- Press the dough firmly when forming the log to prevent crumbling when slicing.
- Adjust baking time according to your oven’s temperature for the perfect golden-brown finish.
- Enjoy these cookies as a delightful treat or package them up for a heartfelt homemade gift! 🎁