a.c As the cheerful season of Christmas approaches, it’s time to bring out the baking spirit and whip up delightful treats that warm the hearts of your loved ones. And what better way to infuse the festive charm into your holiday baking than with a batch of delectable Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies! These festive cookies are a delightful blend of buttery goodness and the sweet allure of maraschino cherries, creating a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Gather your apron, don your chef’s hat, and let’s embark on a magical baking journey together!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – The foundation of any great shortbread lies in the quality of butter you use. Opt for high-quality unsalted butter, as it adds richness and creaminess to the cookies.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – The secret to achieving that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture lies in the powdered sugar, which dissolves easily and blends well with the butter.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The main body of the cookies, all-purpose flour strikes the perfect balance between tenderness and structure.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch – Cornstarch is the key to the cookies’ delicate crumbly texture, making them practically dissolve on your tongue.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the cookies and cherries.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract – Elevate the taste with a hint of almond extract, adding a subtle nutty undertone that complements the cherries.
- 3/4 cup finely chopped Maraschino cherries – The star of the show! These vibrant red cherries bring festive colors and a burst of sweet-tart flavor to each bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Creaming the Butter
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 2: Incorporating the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing on low speed until everything is well combined. Be cautious not to overmix; the dough should come together without any lumps.
Step 3: Adding the Almond Extract and Cherries
Now, it’s time to add that delightful almond extract, which imparts a wonderful aroma to the cookies. Toss in the finely chopped Maraschino cherries and gently fold them into the dough, distributing the vibrant red pieces evenly.
Step 4: Shaping the Cookies
Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into 1-inch balls. You can also get creative with various shapes like hearts, stars, or traditional rounds. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
Step 5: Baking to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the cookies bake for approximately 12-15 minutes or until they turn lightly golden around the edges. Remember, shortbread cookies should not brown too much, so keep a close eye on them.
Step 6: Cooling and Serving
Once the cookies are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Once completely cooled, serve these delightful Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies on a festive platter or pack them in decorative boxes as heartwarming gifts for friends and family.
In conclusion,
these Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful addition to your holiday baking repertoire. The buttery richness, combined with the sweet-tart burst of Maraschino cherries, is sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone who takes a bite. So, spread the joy and magic of Christmas with this delectable treat, and watch as smiles light up the faces of your loved ones! Happy baking and Merry Christmas!
