Go Back
Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies image1
Print Recipe

Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Buttery slice-and-bake shortbread studded with sweet maraschino cherries and chocolate chips — an easy make-ahead holiday cookie.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories: 180kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup confectioners' sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup maraschino cherries well drained and chopped
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Whisk together the flour and fine salt in a medium bowl.
  • Beat the softened butter with confectioners' sugar until smooth and creamy, then add the vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the flour mixture into the butter-sugar blend, mixing until the dough forms large clumps.
  • Carefully fold in the well-drained maraschino cherries and chocolate chips, distributing evenly.
  • Shape the dough into a 2-inch log, wrap tightly in plastic, and refrigerate 1 to 2 hours.
  • Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Slice the chilled log into discs about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick.
  • Arrange slices on the baking sheet, spaced an inch apart, and bake until the tops turn light golden.
  • Cool on the baking sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for a week. The dough log can be refrigerated up to 3 days or frozen up to a month.