Name: Melt-In-Your-Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies for Joyful Moments
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 269 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (at room temperature); 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract; 0.5 teaspoon Almond Extract (can be omitted); 2 tablespoons Maraschino Cherry Juice (from drained cherries); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (spooned and leveled); 1 cup Maraschino Cherries (chopped and drained)

As I rummaged through my pantry, searching for the last remnants of festive flavors, I stumbled upon a jar of maraschino cherries, the perfect unexpected star for my holiday baking. Enter my Melt in Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies—an easy, delightful addition to any cookie platter. These tender, almost ethereal cookies combine the sweet allure of cherries with subtle hints of almond and vanilla, creating a treat that melts on your tongue. Not only do they elevate your dessert game with minimal effort, but they also bring joy to festive gatherings, leaving your friends and family enchanted. Are you ready to discover how to whip up these charming cookies that promise to impress this holiday season?

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Why Are These Cherry Shortbread Cookies Special?

Tender texture: Each bite of these cookies melts in your mouth, showcasing a delightful softness that traditional shortbread often lacks.
Bursting with flavor: The combination of maraschino cherries, almond, and vanilla creates a beautiful harmony of tastes that is simply irresistible.
Effortless preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can easily whip up a batch for any occasion, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Versatile treat: Not just for Christmas, these cookies are delightful year-round—perfect with a cup of tea or as a sweet gift. If you love experimenting, try adding chocolate chips or nuts for a fun twist! You might also enjoy baking these Lemon Sugar Cookies for a refreshing change.

Cherry Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and tenderness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps achieve a light texture; consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and complements the cherry flavor; feel free to substitute with other extracts if desired.
• Almond Extract – Adds a subtle nutty flavor; can be omitted if you prefer a more straightforward taste.
• Maraschino Cherry Juice – Moistens the dough and infuses it with cherry flavor; use the juice from drained cherries for optimal results.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; ensure it’s properly spooned and leveled for accuracy.
• Maraschino Cherries – Chopped cherries add delightful bursts of flavor and color; drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

These Cherry Shortbread Cookies are sure to bring a festive spark to your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Melt-In-Your-Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream 1 cup of unsalted butter at room temperature until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add in ½ cup of granulated sugar, followed by 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of almond extract. Finally, mix in 2 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice until well combined, creating a smooth batter.

Step 2: Incorporate the Flour
Slowly add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, mixing on a low speed until a soft dough begins to form. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed, ensuring all ingredients are incorporated. The dough should be soft but not sticky; if it’s too sticky, you may want to chill it briefly before moving to the next step.

Step 3: Fold in the Cherries
Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped maraschino cherries, making sure they are well distributed throughout the dough. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the tender texture of the cherry shortbread cookies. The vibrant color of the cherries should be visible throughout the dough, adding delightful flecks.

Step 4: Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a disc and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours; overnight is best for improved flavor and texture. This step is crucial as it helps prevent the cookies from spreading during baking, ensuring they maintain their lovely shape.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while waiting for the dough to chill. Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Your kitchen will begin to fill with warm, inviting scents as you prepare to bring your cherry shortbread cookies to life!

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, shape the dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Make sure to leave space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly while baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-9 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them; they should remain soft in the center for that melt-in-your-mouth texture that defines these cherry shortbread cookies. If needed, rotate the baking sheet halfway for even baking.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This will help them firm up a bit while still warm. Enjoy these delightful Melt-In-Your-Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!

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Make Ahead Options

These Melt in Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies are perfect for busy weeknights and festive occasions! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance; simply shape it into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. For even longer storage, consider freezing the wrapped dough for up to 3 months. To maintain their delightful texture, ensure the dough is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before shaping into balls and baking. You’ll have warm, delicious cookies in no time, bringing joy to your holiday gatherings with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful texture.

Fridge: If you prefer, these cookies can also be refrigerated in an airtight container, where they will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply reheat from the freezer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. These Cherry Shortbread Cookies will almost feel freshly baked!

Cherry Shortbread Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to put your own spin on these cookies for a personalized touch that ignites your taste buds!

Chocolate Delight:
Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, decadent variation. The combination of cherries and chocolate takes these cookies to a whole new level of indulgence.
Nutty Twist:
Incorporate ½ cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and richness. The nutty flavor complements cherries beautifully and adds delightful textures.
Citrus Zest:
Grate in some lemon or orange zest (about 1 tablespoon) for a refreshing citrus kick. This twist brightens the cookie’s flavor profile, making them perfect for any season.
Spicy Kick:
Mix in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the flour for a warm, spiced touch. This not only adds warmth but perfectly resonates with the festive spirit of the holidays.
Fruit Medley:
Swap maraschino cherries with dried cranberries or blueberries for a fruity variation. The tartness of these berries brings a delightful surprise to each bite.
Gluten-Free Option:
Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version of this cookie. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.
Floral Infusion:
Use rose or orange blossom water instead of almond extract for a unique twist. These floral notes create an enchanting aroma and taste that elevate your cookies.
Cherry Almond Bars:
Instead of cookies, press the dough into a lined baking dish and bake it as a bar cookie. Cut into squares once cooled for an easy-to-share treat!

For a quick dessert idea, consider these tasty Kitchen Sink Cookies; they’re perfect for using up pantry favorites!

Expert Tips for Cherry Shortbread Cookies

• Chill the Dough: Ensuring your cookie dough is properly chilled helps maintain its shape and prevents spreading during baking.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for your all-purpose flour to avoid dense cookies; this is essential for achieving tender Cherry Shortbread Cookies.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Swap extracts or use fresh maraschino cherries for better flavor; stale ingredients can diminish the overall taste.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye while baking; cookies should be slightly soft in the center. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture that detracts from their melt-in-your-mouth quality.

• Equip for Success: Use a small cookie scoop for consistent sizing, ensuring each Cherry Shortbread Cookie bakes evenly and looks appealing.

What to Serve with Melt in Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Elevate your delightful cookie experience with these perfect pairings that will enchant your taste buds and warm your heart.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery, soft texture balances the sweetness of the cookies, making for a delightful savory-sweet contrast.
Chamomile Tea: The calming floral notes enhance the cherry flavor while creating a soothing moment for tea time.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A rich chocolate touch brings a decadent twist, pairing beautifully with the cherries’ sweetness. A sprinkle of sea salt will make it exquisite!
Spiced Hot Apple Cider: The warmth and spice of cider complement the tender cookies, offering a comforting touch that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries adds a refreshing tartness that brightens the dessert experience, making each bite even more vibrant.
Almond Biscotti: These crispy, nutty cookies echo the almond extract in the shortbread, inviting delightful layers of flavor to your cookie tray.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic creamy treat pairs wonderfully with warm cookies, accentuating their melt-in-your-mouth quality while delivering a delightful temperature contrast.
Fruit Salad: A light, zesty fruit salad made with citrus will cleanse your palate and enhance the cherry flavor in the cookies, creating a harmonious dessert spread.
Sparkling Water: A fizzy drink refreshes your palate, adding a playful touch as you enjoy these cherry shortbread cookies in a festive gathering.

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Melt In Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe maraschino cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for jarred maraschino cherries that are vibrant and glossy without any dark spots or signs of spoilage. Make sure they are packed in a sweet syrup and stay firm when pressed. If you can find fresh cherries, you can also use pitted cherries, which would require a little more prep work but can elevate the flavor related to freshness.

How should I store my Cherry Shortbread Cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep your cookies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like them to last longer, consider refrigerating them where they can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to place parchment paper between layers if you’re stacking them to avoid sticking!

Can I freeze the Cherry Shortbread Cookies?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes!

What should I do if my cookie dough feels too sticky?
Very good question! If your dough is sticky, don’t worry—just chill it in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes. This will help firm it up, making it easier to work with. Additionally, ensure you’re accurately measuring your flour. Remember to spoon and level it for the best texture.

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of with these cookies?
Absolutely! The recipe contains common allergens like butter and almonds (if you choose to use almond extract). For those with nut allergies, simply omit the almond extract and substitute it with vanilla extract. These cookies can also be made dairy-free by using vegan butter for a similar melt-in-your-mouth texture!