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Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies - featured image
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These buttery shortbread cookies are studded with vibrant maraschino cherries and a hint of almond, making them a festive, melt-in-your-mouth treat perfect for holidays and gifting. Quick to make and irresistibly delicious, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup maraschino cherries, well-drained and chopped
  • 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Drain maraschino cherries well and pat dry with paper towels. Chop into small pieces (about pea-sized). Measure out mini chocolate chips if using.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and powdered sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed.
  3. Mix in almond extract (or vanilla extract).
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low just until combined. Dough will look crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
  5. Gently fold in chopped cherries and mini chocolate chips (if using) with a rubber spatula.
  6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough (about 1-inch each) and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently flatten each ball to about 1/2-inch thick.
  7. Chill the tray of shaped cookies in the fridge for 15-20 minutes.
  8. Preheat oven to 325°F. Bake cookies for 14-16 minutes, or until edges are just lightly golden.
  9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Arrange on a platter or pack into tins for gifting. Store extras in an airtight container.

Notes

For gluten-free cookies, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, substitute vegan butter. Dry cherries thoroughly to prevent cookies from spreading. Chill dough before baking for best texture. Cookies freeze well for up to 2 months. Dip in chocolate or add nuts for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: maraschino cherry shortbread cookies, holiday cookies, Christmas cookies, easy shortbread, cherry cookies, festive treats, almond shortbread, cookie swap, gifting cookies

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