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Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

A festive and flavorful holiday treat, these cookies boast a tender, buttery crumb enriched with genuine vanilla and bursts of vibrant candied cherries. Ideal for seasonal gatherings, cookie exchanges, or a classic Christmas Eve indulgence.
Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chill time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup chopped candied cherries red and green blend recommended
  • 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg
  • cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

Instructions
 

  • Cream the softened butter with sugar using an electric or stand mixer until pale and fluffy. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, blending until homogeneous. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the creamed base just until no flour streaks remain. Gently mix in the chopped candied cherries.
  • Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and shape into a log approximately 10 inches in length and 1½ inches in diameter. The dough will be delicate—wrap tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until firm.
  • Adjust the oven rack to the center position and preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the chilled dough into rounds and arrange them on the prepared sheet, allowing ¾ to 1 inch between each cookie.
  • Bake for 12 minutes or until the edges are set and just starting to turn golden. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Ensure even baking by positioning your tray on the center rack. Since oven performance may vary, begin checking the cookies at the 10-minute mark. For those using salted butter, omit the ¼ teaspoon of added salt to balance flavor.