Cherry Chocolate Shortbread

Name: Cherry Chocolate Shortbread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature); 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup maraschino cherries (chopped and well-drained); 2/3 cup chocolate chips

Recipe By:

Stephanie

Posted:

May 19, 2025

Updated:

May 19, 2025

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Buttery and delightful, Cherry Chocolate Shortbread cookies are perfect for any occasion. These cookies combine the sweetness of maraschino cherries with rich chocolate chips, creating a festive treat that stands out on holiday cookie platters. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas or just want to enjoy a sweet snack, these cookies will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
Festive Flavor: The combination of cherry and chocolate adds a burst of flavor that makes every bite special.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with your afternoon tea.
Beautiful Presentation: The colorful chunks of cherries and chocolate make these cookies as beautiful as they are delicious.
Perfectly Buttery Texture: The shortbread base ensures a melt-in-your-mouth experience that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these scrumptious Cherry Chocolate Shortbread cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Stand mixer or hand mixer
Mixing bowls
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Plastic wrap
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light texture.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients while keeping your workspace organized.
Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking your cookies evenly.

Ingredients

Buttery shortbread cookies studded with sweet maraschino cherries and chocolate chips. These festive treats add color and cheer to any holiday cookie platter.

For the Cookie Base

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Mix-Ins

3/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped and well-drained
2/3 cup chocolate chips

Servings: 24
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Sweet Treats
Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 165 calories

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Shortbread

Step 1: Prepare Your Work Area

Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) so it’s ready when you need it.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and powdered sugar using a stand mixer or hand mixer until fluffy.

Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract

Add in the vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well until combined.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and chocolate chips with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches thick. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours until firm.

Step 8: Prepare to Bake

Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 9: Slice Cookies

Using a sharp knife, slice the dough into rounds about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick.

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Place each slice on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 11: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

With these steps completed, you can now enjoy your homemade Cherry Chocolate Shortbread!

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Shortbread

Cherry Chocolate Shortbread is a delightful treat that can brighten up any occasion. These buttery cookies pair wonderfully with various beverages and festive spreads, making them perfect for sharing.

With Hot Beverages

Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of the shortbread.
Tea: A warm cup of herbal or black tea balances the buttery texture beautifully.
Hot Chocolate: Enhance your chocolate experience by enjoying these cookies with hot cocoa.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

Assorted Cookies: Include other holiday favorites like gingerbread and sugar cookies for variety.
Cheese Board: Add cherry chocolate shortbread to a cheese board for a sweet contrast to savory cheeses.
Fruit Compote: Serve with a side of fruit compote to create an exciting mix of flavors.

Gift Ideas

Cookie Jars: Package these cookies in decorative jars for a sweet homemade gift.
Party Favors: Wrap individual cookies in cellophane bags as thoughtful party favors.

How to Perfect Cherry Chocolate Shortbread

Creating the perfect Cherry Chocolate Shortbread requires some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out deliciously every time.

Use Room Temperature Butter: This helps achieve a creamy texture when creaming butter and sugar together.
Drain Cherries Well: Properly draining maraschino cherries prevents excess moisture, which can affect the dough consistency.
Chill the Dough: Chilling the shaped dough allows for easier slicing and better cookie shape during baking.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly golden but not browned for the best texture.
Cool Completely Before Storing: Ensure cookies are fully cooled before storing them to maintain their crispness.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Chocolate Shortbread

Pairing side dishes with Cherry Chocolate Shortbread can enhance your dessert spread. Here are some ideas that complement these festive treats perfectly.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream goes wonderfully with the rich flavors of the shortbread.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle melted chocolate sauce over the cookies for an extra indulgent touch.
Fresh Berries: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing balance.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a nice contrast to the dense texture of the cookies.
Nut Mixes: A selection of spiced or candied nuts provides a crunchy contrast that pairs well with sweetness.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, fruits, and crushed shortbread in a glass for a delicious parfait option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating Cherry Chocolate Shortbread can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

Ignoring butter temperature: Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for a light and fluffy texture.
Not draining cherries properly: If maraschino cherries are not well-drained, excess moisture can affect the dough’s consistency. Pat them dry with paper towels before mixing.
Skipping chilling time: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the right texture. Don’t rush this step; it helps maintain cookie shape during baking.
Overbaking cookies: Baking too long can result in dry shortbread. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they are lightly golden around the edges.
Using too much flour: Adding more flour than required can make your shortbread tough. Measure accurately and avoid packing flour into the cup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Cherry Chocolate Shortbread in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Chocolate Shortbread

Wrap individual cookies or logs of dough tightly in plastic wrap.
Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months.

Reheating Cherry Chocolate Shortbread

Oven: Preheat to 300°F and bake for about 5 minutes to refresh the cookies.
Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds for quick warming.
Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat, placing cookies for a minute until slightly warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries in Cherry Chocolate Shortbread?

Fresh cherries can be used, but ensure they are pitted and chopped finely. They contain more moisture, so you may need to adjust other ingredients accordingly.

How do I customize my Cherry Chocolate Shortbread?

You can add different nuts or swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate. Experimenting with flavors like almond extract or adding dried fruits can also add exciting twists.

How do I know when my Cherry Chocolate Shortbread is done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still pale in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make Cherry Chocolate Shortbread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Make sure it’s suitable for cookies to maintain texture.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Chocolate Shortbread offers a delightful blend of sweet and buttery flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Its festive colors add cheer to holiday platters, while its versatility allows for various customizations. Whether you’re adding nuts or trying different chocolates, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy these delicious treats!

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