Description
These 4-ingredient Christmas shortbread cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats with festive maraschino cherry centers. Perfect for the holidays, they’re easy to make, customizable, and irresistibly delicious. With just a few ingredients, they’re ideal for both novice and seasoned bakers looking to add holiday cheer to their cookie trays.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Maraschino cherries (halved)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the flour until the dough forms.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the baking sheet.
- Press the center of each ball with your thumb or a spoon to create an indentation.
- Place a halved maraschino cherry in each indentation.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges turn lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to enhance the flavor.
- Chilling the dough before baking can help cookies retain their shape.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday, Christmas