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Shortbread cookies have a rich history that dates back to the 16th century in Scotland. Originally created with simple ingredients such as butter, sugar, and flour, shortbread was a luxury item reserved for special occasions, including Christmas and weddings. The traditional Scottish shortbread, known as “petticoat tails,” was shaped into wedges and often enjoyed with tea. Over the years, this humble cookie has evolved, taking on various forms and flavors while maintaining its buttery, crumbly texture that we know and love today.

Festive Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Get ready to elevate your holiday baking with Festive Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies! These delicious treats combine the rich, buttery goodness of classic shortbread with the sweet-tart burst of maraschino cherries, all topped with festive sprinkles. Discover the history of shortbread, learn how to make these cookies step-by-step, and enjoy the nostalgia and joy of sharing them with family and friends. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as thoughtful gifts!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

¾ cup powdered sugar

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon almond extract

½ cup maraschino cherries, chopped and drained

½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Red and green sprinkles for garnish

Instructions
 

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

    Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

      Add Extracts: Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts until well combined.

        Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until just combined.

          Fold in Cherries and Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and, if using, the chopped nuts until distributed evenly throughout the dough.

            Shape Cookies: Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, portion out small balls of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with your hand or a fork.

              Add Sprinkles: Lightly press the tops of each cookie with your fingertips and add red and green sprinkles for a festive touch.

                Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly soft, but they will firm up as they cool.

                  Cool Down: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                    Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, plate them up and enjoy the delightful flavor combination of buttery shortbread, sweet cherries, and festive sprinkles!

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