Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Maraschino Cherries, those vibrant red delights, have been a favorite among food enthusiasts and mixologists for decades. These sweet, syrupy cherries add a burst of color and flavor to a variety of culinary creations, from cocktails to desserts and beyond. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of maraschino cherries, exploring not only how to make your own maraschino cherry treats but also creative ways to use them in your culinary endeavors.

Before we embark on the journey of maraschino cherry delights, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need:

Instructions:

1. Start by mixing the flour and salt together, then set this mixture aside.
2. Cream 1 cup of unsalted, softened butter with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Mix in the delightful aroma of vanilla extract.
3. Add the flour and salt mixture to the creamy blend and mix until it starts forming larger clumps.
4. Mix in the chocolate chips and those glorious maraschino cherries.
5. Form the dough into a log shape, ensuring it’s well-pressed to prevent crumbling when you slice the cookies. The log should be approximately 2 inches thick. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours.
6. Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Cut the log into 1/4 or 1/3 inch thick slices (if the slices crumble, press them back together with your hands) and place them onto the baking sheet with about one inch of space between each slice.
8. Bake the cookies for 10–15 minutes, or until they just start to turn lightly golden brown on top.
9. Allow them to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a rack to cool completely.

Creative Uses for Maraschino Cherries

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making maraschino cherry cookies, let’s explore some creative ways to incorporate these sweet treasures into your culinary endeavors:

1. Cocktail Garnish

Maraschino cherries are a classic garnish for cocktails like the Manhattan, Old Fashioned, or Shirley Temple. They add a pop of color and a sweet touch to the drink. You can also use the cherry syrup to enhance the flavor of the cocktail.

2. Dessert Toppings

These cherries can be used as a topping for ice cream sundaes, cakes, pies, or even pancakes and waffles. They provide a vibrant appearance and a burst of sweetness. Drizzle some of the syrup over the dessert for added flavor.

3. Baking Ingredient

Chop up maraschino cherries and incorporate them into baked goods like cookies, brownies, or cakes. They can add a delightful burst of flavor and moisture to your treats. Just make sure to drain and pat dry the cherries before adding them to the batter to prevent excessive moisture.

4. Fruit Salads

Include maraschino cherries in fruit salads for an extra touch of sweetness. They pair well with a variety of fruits like pineapple, oranges, grapes, and bananas.

5. Sauces and Glazes

The syrup from maraschino cherries can be used as a base for sauces and glazes. Mix it with other ingredients like balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, or spices to create a unique flavor profile for meats or desserts.

6. Cheese Platters

Pair maraschino cherries with different types of cheese on a platter. The combination of sweet cherries and savory cheese can create a delightful contrast of flavors.

Maraschino cherries are a versatile and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re crafting cocktails or baking sweet treats, these cherries bring a burst of color and flavor that’s hard to resist. So, next time you’re in the kitchen, don’t forget to reach for a jar of maraschino cherries and let your creativity shine.