Categories: Breakfast

Welcome to my kitchen, where today we’re baking up a batch of delightful Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies! These cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and buttery flavors, studded with maraschino cherries and chocolate chips. They are easy to make and even easier to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. Let’s get started!

Introduction

Welcome to my kitchen, where today we’re baking up a batch of delightful Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies! These cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and buttery flavors, studded with maraschino cherries and chocolate chips. They are easy to make and even easier to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of classic shortbread cookies but want to elevate them with a twist of fruity sweetness and decadent chocolate, this recipe is for you. These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing with the vibrant pops of cherry red and chocolate throughout each bite. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or simply treating yourself to a special homemade treat.

Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

To make these scrumptious cookies, you’ll need:

– Butter: Provides the rich, buttery flavor and tender texture of the shortbread.

– Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps create that classic shortbread crumble.

– Flour: The main structure of the cookies, giving them their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth quality.

– Maraschino Cherries: Adds a burst of sweetness and vibrant color to each cookie.

– Chocolate Chips: Melty pockets of chocolate in every bite, because who doesn’t love chocolate?

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

2. Gradually add in the flour and mix until a dough forms.

3. Gently fold in chopped maraschino cherries and chocolate chips.

4. Shape the dough into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

5. Preheat your oven, slice the dough into rounds, and bake until lightly golden.

6. Allow the cookies to cool before indulging in their buttery, cherry-chocolate goodness.

Tips & Tricks

– Be sure not to overmix the dough to keep the cookies tender.

– Chill the dough thoroughly for easy slicing and to prevent spreading during baking.

– For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies.

Health and Nutrition Highlights

While these cookies are definitely a treat, you can still enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The butter provides richness, the cherries add a fruity touch, and the chocolate chips bring a dose of sweetness. Remember, homemade treats are meant to be savored and shared with loved ones.

Storage & Make-Ahead Notes

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze the baked cookies for longer storage. If you want to get ahead, you can prepare the dough in advance, chill it, and then slice and bake the cookies when ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

A: While fresh cherries can work, they will have a different texture and flavor compared to the sweet, syrupy maraschino cherries.

Q: Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite type of chocolate for a unique twist.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the classic appeal of shortbread with the fun additions of cherries and chocolate. Whether you’re baking these for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, they are sure to bring joy to your taste buds. So, grab your apron and mixing bowl, and let’s bake up some happiness together!

Print

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

Get ready to impress your guests this holiday season with these easy homemade dessert ideas! These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies are not only simple to make but also a delightful twist on a classic treat. Perfect for cookie swaps or cozy gatherings, these cookies will bring a burst of flavor to your celebrations. Check out more at epiceats! homemadedessertideas easycakerecipes cookieexchange holidaybaking dessertlovers chocolatechipcookies bakingfun

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

3/4 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped

1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

      Add Extracts: Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using) until fully incorporated.

        Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Dont overmix.

          Fold in Mix-ins: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries using a spatula, making sure theyre evenly distributed throughout the dough.

            Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Flatten each ball slightly with your palm.

              Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are still soft.

                Cool Down: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                  Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, dust the cookies with extra powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

                    Serve and Enjoy: Serve these delightful cookies at your next gathering or enjoy them with a warm cup of tea!

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

                        Yeuen

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