What is Cookies With Maraschino Cherries?

Cookies With Maraschino Cherries have their roots in traditional baking, often associated with celebrations and family gatherings. This recipe has gained popularity due to its simplicity and versatility, allowing bakers to experiment with various flavors and ingredients. The use of Maraschino Cherries and even Green Cherries adds a vibrant pop of color to Xmas Cookies, making them a festive choice for holiday baking.

Ingredients (with Servings)

This recipe for Cookies With Maraschino Cherries serves 12, but you can easily scale it for larger gatherings. Below are the organized ingredients:

• Main Ingredients (Serves 12):
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup Maraschino cherries, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Seasoning Mixture:
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• Optional Add-Ons:
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Directions (Step-by-Step)

Follow these simple steps to create your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually mix in the flour and salt, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts.
4. Gently fold in the chopped Maraschino cherries and any optional add-ons, such as nuts or chocolate chips.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets and bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.

Serving Size Adjustments (Scaling Table)

To help you adjust the recipe for different group sizes, heres a scaling table:

Recipe Variations

Get creative with your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies by trying these variations:

• Low-Carb Variation: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
• Gluten-Free Variation: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Seasonal Twist: Add crushed peppermint for a festive holiday flair.

Serving Tips

Enhance your presentation and enjoyment of Cookies With Maraschino Cherries with these serving suggestions:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• Add a sprig of mint as a garnish for a pop of color.
• Pair the cookies with a light tea or coffee for a charming afternoon snack.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe for Cookies With Maraschino Cherries is not only convenient and flavorful, but it also adapts well to various dietary preferences. They are kid-friendly, making them a fun baking project for families. Plus, they bring a festive touch to any dessert spread, especially during the holiday season.

Pro Tips

Here are some insider tips to ensure your Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies turn out perfectly:

• Always use room temperature butter for the best texture.
• Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to enhance flavor.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week.

Customizations

Tailor your Cookies With Maraschino Cherries to suit various tastes with these customizations:

• Low-Carb Option: Swap traditional flour for coconut flour for a low-carb alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free baking mix for a safe option for those with sensitivities.
• Kid-Friendly Option: Reduce the amount of almond extract for a milder cookie flavor.