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Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Cherry almond shortbread cookies are a delightful and simple treat with a buttery texture and a hint of almond, highlighted by sweet maraschino cherry pieces. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are bursting with flavor and have a beautiful appearance.
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Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 29 minutes
Servings: 20 cookies

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • ½ cup maraschino cherries chopped

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the unsalted butter, powdered sugar, salt, and almond extract until smooth and well combined.
  • Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing on low speed until the mixture becomes crumbly.
  • Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and continue mixing on low speed until a dough forms.
  • Transfer the dough onto a sheet of parchment paper. Use the parchment paper and your hands to shape the dough into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
  • Slice the chilled dough log into ½-inch thick pieces. Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for slight spreading.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set but not browned.
  • Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Store the cherry almond shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • The dough can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 1 month.