1. Creaming the Butter and Sugar
Begin by placing the softened butter in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream the butter until it’s smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring you scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally.
2. Incorporating Liquids
Add the maraschino cherry juice and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix on low speed until well combined. The mixture might look slightly curdled at this stage, but this is perfectly normal.
3. Adding Dry Ingredients
Sift together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to ensure your cookies remain tender.
4. Folding in Cherries
Fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries with a spatula, distributing them evenly throughout the dough. The dough will be quite colorful with specks of cherry.
5. Chilling the Dough
Shape the dough into a disc and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling step is crucial as it helps the flavors meld together and makes the dough easier to handle.
6. Shaping the Cookies
Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. If desired, press the center slightly with your thumb or a small spoon to create a small indent; you can fill this later with chocolate, icing, or more cherries.
7. Baking
Bake in the preheated oven for 14-16 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. It’s crucial not to overbake to maintain their signature tender texture.
8. Cooling and Decorating
Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If you made indents in your cookies, now is a great time to add a little extra cherry piece or fill them with a dollop of icing.
9. Finishing Touches
Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if using, and perhaps add some festive green sprinkles or sugar to enhance the Christmas vibe.
Conclusion
These Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them a perfect addition to your holiday table. Their festive appearance and exquisite flavor are bound to make them a new holiday tradition in your household. Enjoy the process of baking these delightful cookies and the joy they bring to your celebrations!
Storage Tips
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for up to three months, ensuring you have a taste of Christmas anytime you wish!