Introduction
Get ready to indulge in the delightful combination of sweet cherries and rich chocolate with these Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies! Perfectly buttery and crisp, these cookies are a must-have for any dessert table or cozy afternoon treat. The burst of tart cherry mingling with luscious chocolate chips creates a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them a great choice for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped cherries (fresh or maraschino)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which will make it easy to transfer your delicious cookies later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with its sweet aroma.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s evenly blended into the buttery goodness.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms that you can easily mold.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and the chopped cherries, making sure each bite will be bursting with flavor.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Using your hand, gently flatten each cookie slightly — this helps them bake evenly while retaining that delightful shortbread texture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, creating that perfect bite-sized treat!
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely and fill your kitchen with the mouthwatering scent.
Notes or Tips
- If using fresh cherries, make sure to pit and chop them before mixing into the dough.
- For a different twist, consider adding a pinch of almond extract for an even richer flavor profile.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week — if they last that long!
Cooking Techniques
When preparing these cookies, take care to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly; this is the key to achieving a light, tender texture. As you mix in the flour, avoid over-mixing to ensure that the dough remains delicate and flaky, characteristic of great shortbread. If you prefer a little extra crunch, feel free to substitute a portion of the flour with finely ground nuts!
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies? Absolutely! Once baked, let the cookies cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
What if I don’t have cherries? No problem! You can substitute the cherries with other options like dried cranberries or raisins for a different yet delicious flavor twist.
Conclusion
These Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of flavors that come together in a magical way. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cookies bring joy and warmth to any moment. So grab your apron, put on some music, and let the baking begin! Happy baking!