Absolutely! Let’s make this a full, festive, detailed Christmas cookie recipe—classic, colorful, and full of nostalgia. 🎄🍒
🍪 Classic Christmas Cherry Cookies
Introduction
These Christmas cherry cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with festive color. With red and green candied cherries, a buttery dough, and a hint of vanilla, they are perfect for holiday cookie boxes, parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of cocoa. Each bite is a sweet reminder of family traditions and cozy holiday memories, just like the cookies your mom used to make.
These cookies are easy enough to bake in batches yet special enough to impress everyone with their vibrant, nostalgic charm.
History
Christmas cookies have been a staple in European and American holiday traditions for centuries. The addition of candied cherries became popular in the 20th century as colorful, sweet accents to festive baked goods. These cookies, often passed down through families, represent the warmth of holiday traditions—where baking and sharing treats bring people together. Using red and green cherries makes them instantly recognizable as a festive holiday favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 cup chopped red and green candied cherries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Extra sugar for rolling (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped candied cherries and nuts, if using.
Step 2: Shape the cookies
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Optionally, roll the balls in granulated sugar for a sparkling finish.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Methods & Tips
- Cherry distribution: Chop the candied cherries evenly so every bite has color and sweetness.
- Soft cookies: Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- Flavor boost: Almond extract pairs beautifully with the cherries but is optional.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.
Formation
- Base dough: buttery and soft with subtle sweetness
- Colorful inclusions: red and green candied cherries for festive appeal
- Optional crunch: chopped nuts for texture contrast
The result is a visually vibrant, tender, and chewy cookie that’s perfect for holiday gift boxes or cookie platters.
Conclusion
These classic Christmas cherry cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a holiday tradition. Soft, buttery, colorful, and full of nostalgia, they capture the joy of baking and sharing with loved ones. Every bite brings festive cheer and a reminder of family memories around the holiday season.
For the Lovers
- Pair with hot chocolate, eggnog, or mulled cider for a festive experience.
- Add a drizzle of white chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Package in clear cellophane with ribbons for charming homemade gifts.
- Perfect for holiday cookie swaps, parties, and baking with kids.
If you want, I can also create a “Mega Christmas Cookie Box Recipe” with multiple festive flavors, including these cherry cookies, peppermint, and chocolate-dipped treats—all in one ultimate holiday collection.
Do you want me to do that? 🎄🍪✨