Creating Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies is simple with these clear steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

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

1. Add Extracts: Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract until fully incorporated.

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

1. Add Cherries: Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries gently, being careful not to overmix.

1. Form the Cookies: Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

1. Flatten: Gently flatten each dough ball with the bottom of a glass or your fingertips.

1. Sprinkle (Optional): If desired, sprinkle a few red and green sprinkles on top of each cookie for a festive touch.

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

1. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Follow these steps to create the most delightful Christmas cookies that will fill your home with joy and deliciousness!