Name: Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 155 min
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, unsalted; 1/2 cup icing sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped fine; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chocolate chips, melted

Introduction to Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

If you’ve been on the lookout for a delightful treat that combines tradition with a touch of whimsy, look no further than Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. These cookies are more than just a sweet indulgence; they encapsulate the essence of festive baking with their rich flavors and appealing textures.

Why are Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies a must-try?

What sets these cookies apart is their melt-in-your-mouth texture, enriched by buttery shortbread that perfectly complements the sweetness of chopped maraschino cherries. As you take a bite, the flavor bursts with hints of vanilla and chocolate, making each cookie a mini celebration. According to reports from baking enthusiasts, these unique cookies have become a staple during the holiday season, drawing admiration from friends and family alike.

Moreover, they're surprisingly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients. If you love cookies that are not only delicious but also eye-catching, a drizzle of melted chocolate adds the perfect finishing touch.

Looking for more baking inspiration or tips on how to enhance your baking skills? Check out this comprehensive guide on cookie techniques to elevate your next dessert project. Get ready for a fabulous baking adventure with these delightful shortbread cookies!

Ingredients for Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Creating delicious Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies starts with the right ingredients. Let's break them down!

Essential ingredients

To whip up these delightful cookies, you’ll need:

1 cup of unsalted butter – This adds richness to your dough.
½ cup of icing sugar – For that perfect sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
½ teaspoon of vanilla extract – A hint of vanilla enhances the flavor dramatically.
2 cups of all-purpose flour – The base for your cookies, providing structure.
½ teaspoon of salt – Balances the sweetness.
1 cup of maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped – These are the stars of the show!
1 cup of chocolate chips – Because what's a cookie without chocolate?
½ cup of chocolate chips, melted – For drizzling over the finished cookies.

Optional garnishes

While the Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are delicious as they are, you might want to consider some optional garnishes to elevate your treat:

Chopped nuts – Walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch.
Sprinkles – Perfect for festive occasions and a splash of color.
Sea salt flakes – A sprinkle on top before serving offers a sophisticated touch.

Experiment with these variations to make the recipe truly your own! And don’t forget to check out more expert tips on baking cookies on King Arthur Baking.

Step-by-step Preparation of Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Creating Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies is a delightful adventure in your kitchen! These cookies not only taste heavenly but also fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma. Let’s walk through each step together to create these festive treats.

Gather your tools and ingredients

Before diving into the mixing and baking, take a moment to round up everything you’ll need. Here’s a convenient list:

Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter
½ cup icing sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped
1 cup chocolate chips
½ cup chocolate chips (for drizzling, melted)
Tools:
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Plastic wrap
Cookie sheets
Parchment paper
Microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate

With everything gathered, you’ll feel organized and ready to bake!

Prepare the dough

Start by combining the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt and set it aside. In a larger mixing bowl, you’ll cream the butter and icing sugar using your electric mixer until it turns light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, stir in the vanilla extract, and gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Keep mixing until clumps begin to form. Finally, fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and chocolate chips for that rich, festive flavor.

Chill the dough for easier slicing

Once your dough is ready, it’s time to shape it. On a plastic-wrapped cutting board, turn out the dough and roll it into a log, about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap it tightly in the plastic wrap, twisting the ends to secure it. Chilling the dough for at least two hours or even overnight not only makes slicing easier but also enhances the cookies' flavors. Chilling dough is essential for delightful cookies!

Bake the cookies to perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the chilled dough and slice it into ¼ to ⅓ inch thick coins. Place these on a lined cookie sheet about an inch apart. Bake for 10-15 minutes until their tops turn a light golden brown. Remember, letting them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes is important before transferring them to a wire rack.

Drizzle and cool before serving

To finish your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies, melt the reserved chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts, stirring in between until smooth. Using a fork, drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for that beautiful touch. Allow the drizzle to set before serving or packing up these delicious cookies for friends and family.

Now you’re all set to make these delightful cookies! Enjoy each bite, and feel free to share your baking experience. Happy baking!

Variations on Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Chocolate Cherry Twist

Elevate your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies by adding a rich chocolate twist! Simply incorporate cocoa powder into the flour mixture, or for an extra treat, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for that indulgent touch. This combination enhances the flavor profile while keeping every bite deliciously moist and flavorful. Who can resist a chocolate-covered cherry?

Gluten-Free Option

If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, swapping in a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend is a simple fix. Just be sure to check that your additional ingredients, like icing sugar and chocolate chips, are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy delightful Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies without compromising your dietary needs. For more tips on baking gluten-free treats, look for reliable baking resources like King Arthur Baking.

Baking Tips and Notes for Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Common pitfalls to avoid

When making Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies, be cautious not to overmix the dough after adding the flour. This can lead to tough cookies. Also, make sure to let the dough chill for at least two hours; this makes it easier to slice and helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture you crave! If slices crumble during cutting, moisture from your fingers can help mold them back together easily.

Storage tips for freshness

To keep your delicious cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but I bet they'll be gone long before that! For longer storage, consider freezing them—just make sure to layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking. You can find more storage tips on sites like The Spruce Eats. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Serving Suggestions for Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Great pairings with beverages

When savoring your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies, consider pairing them with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a creamy cup of hot chocolate. The sweet, buttery flavors of the cookies complement the tea's lightness and the richness of hot chocolate beautifully. For something a bit more unique, try them with an almond-flavored latte; the nutty notes will enhance the cherries’ sweetness.

Presentation ideas for special occasions

Elevate your cookie game by presenting your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies on a festive platter, adorned with seasonal decorations. Place them in clear treat bags tied with colorful ribbons for a delightful party favor. You could also stack them in a glass jar as an eye-catching centerpiece, perfect for holiday gatherings or celebrations. For added flair, sprinkle a little powdered sugar over the cookies just before serving to give them a snowy, festive look.

Time Breakdown for Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Preparation time
Getting started on your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies takes about 25 minutes. This includes mixing your ingredients and rolling the dough into shape—easy peasy!

Baking time
Once you're ready to bake, it’ll take around 10-15 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on those cookies; you want them just golden on top.

Total time
From start to finish, including chilling, expect a total of about 2 hours and 35 minutes. The chill time helps develop flavor and makes slicing easier, so don’t rush it!

As you embark on your cookie-making journey, you might find it helpful to read some tips on cookie baking from King Arthur Baking. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Calories per cookie

These delicious Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies come in at about 178 calories per cookie, making them a moderately indulgent treat perfect for sharing during the holidays.

Key nutritional highlights

Each cookie contains:

Total Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 47mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 11g
Protein: 2g

These cookies are packed with rich flavors and just the right amount of sweetness. For a little extra boost in fiber, consider pairing them with a fresh fruit salad! For further dietary advice, check out the USDA’s dietary guidelines to see how you can integrate treats into a balanced diet.

FAQs about Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Can I substitute other cherries?

Absolutely! While maraschino cherries bring a unique sweetness and color, you can experiment with other types like dark sweet cherries or tart cherries. Just keep in mind that the flavor and moisture content may vary, which could impact the texture of your cookies.

How can I achieve a better texture?

To ensure your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies have that perfect melt-in-your-mouth quality, make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Additionally, chilling the dough for at least two hours helps solidify the fat, leading to a better texture. You might also consider replacing a small portion of all-purpose flour with almond flour for an enhanced richness.

What’s the best way to store these cookies?

For optimal freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If you plan to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking! Check out this guide on cookie storage for more tips on keeping your treats delicious.

Conclusion on Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

In summary, Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that blends the sweet and tart flavor of cherries with the buttery richness of shortbread. Perfect for any celebration, these cookies are quick to bake and easy to share. So why not add this festive recipe to your holiday traditions? Enjoy!