Shortbread Cherry Bonbons – A Sweet and Simple Holiday Cookie Favorite

Mama, you know the holidays are in full swing when the smell of butter, sugar, and vanilla starts wafting through the kitchen. There’s something magical about baking this time of year — it brings the family together, warms the house, and fills your heart (and belly!) with pure joy. One of my favorite recipes to make during the season is Shortbread Cherry Bonbons.

These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies hide a surprise inside — a sweet maraschino cherry tucked neatly in the center. They’re soft, tender, and just the right mix of simple and special. Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, making homemade gifts, or adding to your Christmas dessert tray, Shortbread Cherry Bonbons will quickly become a new family favorite.

Ingredients for Shortbread Cherry Bonbons

How to make Shortbread Cherry Bonbons: ingredients you need!

Cookies

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt
• 24 maraschino cherries, well-drained and patted dry

Optional Glaze

½ tsp almond or vanilla extract

1 cup powdered sugar

2 Tbsp milk or cherry juice (from the jar)

Shortbread Cherry Bonbons Video Tutorial

For those of you who would love a visual step-by-step tutorial here is one for you!

How to Make Shortbread Cherry Bonbons

How to make Shortbread Cherry Bonbons: a step-by-step guide

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Make the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla. Gradually add flour and salt until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels a bit too soft, pop it in the fridge for about 15 minutes.

3. Wrap the Cherries

Take about a tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a maraschino cherry in the center, then wrap the dough around it, rolling gently to form a smooth ball. Be sure the cherry is completely covered — if the juice leaks out, it can cause the cookie to crack while baking.

4. Bake

Place the dough balls about an inch apart on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should stay pale and soft. Cool completely on a wire rack.

5. Glaze (Optional)

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or cherry juice, and almond or vanilla extract. Once cookies are completely cool, drizzle or dip them in the glaze for a glossy, festive finish.

Shortbread Cherry Bonbons: SIDE IDEA

Why Shortbread Cherry Bonbons Are a Crazy Busy Mama Favorite

The best part about these Shortbread Cherry Bonbons is that they’re made with pantry staples and come together quickly. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps to bake something that feels truly special.

They’re buttery, bite-sized, and full of charm — the kind of cookie that makes people stop and ask, “How did you make these?” And you can smile knowing it only took a few simple steps.

These cookies also make a beautiful homemade gift. Pack a few in a festive tin or wrap them up with ribbon and a little “Made with love” tag — it’s a sweet way to share holiday cheer with neighbors, teachers, or friends.

So, mama, pour yourself a cup of coffee, put on your favorite Christmas playlist, and bake up a batch of Shortbread Cherry Bonbons. Because the holidays aren’t about perfection — they’re about those little moments of sweetness we share around the table. 🍒✨

Crazy Busy Mama Tip

To keep your Shortbread Cherry Bonbons perfectly shaped, make sure your cherries are patted completely dry before wrapping them in dough. A little extra moisture can cause cracking or soggy spots in the cookie.

Also, for a fun twist, try using green or red-tinted glaze for a festive holiday look — or sprinkle with crushed peppermint for extra sparkle on your Christmas cookie tray!

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Mama, If you give this recipe a try and love it, I’d be thrilled if you could leave a comment and a 5-star rating below! Your feedback not only makes my day but also helps me understand what kinds of recipes you’d like to see more of.

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More Easy Holiday Recipes

If you love these Shortbread Cherry Bonbons, be sure to check out these other easy Holiday recipes that will add fun and flavor to every meal.

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