CHRISTMAS-MARASCHINO-SHORTBREAD

August 27, 2025 by admin

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## 🍪 How to Make Christmas Maraschino Shortbread

### Step 1: Prep the Cherries

Chop the maraschino cherries and blot them dry with paper towels. This helps prevent the dough from becoming too wet.

### Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.

### Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms. Fold in the cherries (and optional chocolate chips or nuts, if using).

### Step 4: Shape the Dough

Form the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour — or until firm. You can also roll out the dough and use festive cookie cutters instead.

### Step 5: Slice and Bake

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Slice the dough into ¼-inch rounds and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.

### Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy as-is, or dust with powdered sugar for a snowy finish!

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## ✨ Holiday Tips & Variations

* **Dip half in melted chocolate** and sprinkle with crushed peppermint for extra holiday cheer.
* Swap vanilla extract for **almond extract** for a deeper cherry flavor.
* Store in an airtight container for up to a week — or freeze the dough for later.
* Package in tins or jars for **beautiful homemade holiday gifts**.

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## 🎄 Final Thoughts

**Christmas Maraschino Shortbread** brings the joy of the season into every bite. It’s festive, easy to make, and wonderfully nostalgic — the kind of cookie that disappears quickly and becomes a yearly tradition.

Bake a batch, turn on your favorite holiday music, and share these cherry-kissed treats with the people you love most. ❤️

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Would you like a printable gift tag to pair with cookie tins, or a version of this recipe with gluten-free flour?