Okay, you guys, get ready. These are some of the best videos I have ever seen.Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies.I know there are a million cookie recipes out there, but these are different. What would happen if a shortbread cookie and a decadent chocolate cherry dessert had a baby. Think buttery, melt-in-your-mouth goodness with bursts of sweet cherry and rich chocolate chips. What’s the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make. If you can stir, you can bake them. I always make these cookies on nights when I’m craving something sweet, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. They hit the spot, and everyone loves them. Plus, they make the whole house smell amazing!
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What is a Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookie?
What exactly are these magical cookies? Think of them as a super-tender, incredibly flavorful version of a classic shortbread. What’s essentially a buttery cookie base, made even more exciting with the addition of juicy cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips? What makes these different from regular shortbread is that they are not crumbly. The cherries add moisture and a lovely chewiness, while the chocolate chips bring that perfect balance of sweetness and richness. It’s a simple recipe at its heart, but the combination of flavors and textures elevate it to something truly special. Honestly, it’s one of those treats that just makes you happy when you eat it.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, let me count the ways you’ll adore these.Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies.What I love most is the flavor. The buttery shortbread is just the perfect canvas for the sweet and slightly tart cherries and the rich chocolate. What is a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue? What are some of the easiest recipes to follow? What are some of the best cookies you have in your pantry? Serve them with coffee for breakfast, pack them in your kids’ lunchboxes, or bring them to a holiday gathering. Trust me, they’ll be a hit! I love chocolate chunk cookies, but with an elegant twist. I’ve been asked for this recipe countless times!
How do I make chocolate shortbread cookies?
Quick Overview
Making these delightful cookies.Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies.Is it easier to make chocolate chips? What is the hardest part of baking dough?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted. This will give you the perfect cookie texture. I always take mine out of the fridge about an hour before baking.
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and that classic shortbread texture.
* 1/4 cup powdered sugar: This adds a melt-in-your-mouth quality to the cookies.
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and enhances the other flavors.
I prefer unbleached all-purpose flour for this recipe.
* 1/4 teaspoon salt: To balance out the sweetness.
For the Filling:
I like to use tart dried cherries for a little extra zing. Make sure to chop them into smaller pieces so they distribute evenly throughout the dough.
* 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: You can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips, depending on your preference. I personally like the contrast of semi-sweet with the cherries.
What is the step-by-
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper is my best friend in the kitchen, making cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Add Vanilla
I’ve tried different extracts here (almond, even! ), but vanilla is the winner every time.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Step 6: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chopped cherries and chocolate chips until evenly distributed. Don’t use the mixer for this step, or you’ll end up with pulverized cherries!
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Divide dough in half. Shape each half into a log about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. I like to bake cookies the next day. I sometimes chill them for longer, even overnight, if I want to bake the next day.
Step 8: Slice and Bake
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
Step 9: Bake
I always bake shortbread cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
What is the best way to keep cookies warm on a baking sheet?
What should I serve it with?
These Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies: What are some examples?What are some good side dishes to serve on their own?
For Breakfast:I like to serve them with coffee or latte for a sweet and satisfying start to the day. I sometimes crumble them over yogurt for a little extra crunch.
For Brunch:Serve them with fresh fruit and a glass of sparkling wine. They add a touch of elegance to any brunch spread.
As Dessert:What’s a good dessert to serve after dinner?
For Cozy Snacks:What is the best way to unwind after a long day?
My family tradition is to make these every Christmas. We put them out for Santa, and he always leaves an extra gift behind! They’re also great for potlucks. Everyone asks me for the recipe.
How do you make a delicious shortbread cookie?
Want to take your Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies.What are some tips for achieving cookie perfection?
Butter Prep:If butter is too cold, the cookies will be dry and crumbly. If it’s too melted, they’ll spread too much while baking.
Mixing Advice:Do not overmix the dough. Overmixing can result in hard cookies. Mix until just combined.
Cherry Customization: Cherry CustomizationExperiment with different types of dried cherries. Tart cherries, sweet cherries, or even a mix of both can add unique flavor dimensions to cookies. I’ve even used maraschino cherries (well drained and chopped!) in a pinch.
Chocolate Chip Swaps: What are your favorite chocolateCan you substitute different types of chocolate chips for milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even a combination of all three? I once tried butterscotch chips, and they were surprisingly good!
Baking Tips:Shortbread cookies can burn easily, so it’s important to remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are lightly brown.
Ingredient Swaps:Can you substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe? I always add a teaspoon of xanthan gum to help bind the dough. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious!
One time, I accidentally used salted butter instead of unsalted. The cookies were still good, but they had a slightly salty-sweet flavor. Is it bad to use unsalted butter?
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
These Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies.Are best enjoyed fresh, but can also be stored for later?
Room Temperature:Can you store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days?
Refrigerator Storage: What is the For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving.
How do I use a freezerTo freeze cookies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Is it safe to thaw them at room temperature before serving?
What are the Frequently Asked Questions?
Final Thoughts
What is my all-time favorite recipe for a good meal?Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies.! They are buttery, tender, and bursting with flavor, and they’re surprisingly easy to make. What more could you ask for? What are some of my favorite shortbread recipes? I have a lemon shortbread that’s divine. Happy baking! And please, if you try this recipe, come back and leave a comment. I really want to hear how they turn out for you!
How to Make 7 Scrumptious Almond Cranberry Shortbread Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar for sweetness
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 0.5 cup dried cranberries chopped
- 0.5 cup sliced almonds toasted
- 2 tablespoons honey for glaze
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the sifted flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough into the prepared baking pan, distributing it evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine chopped dried cranberries, toasted sliced almonds, and honey. Spread evenly over the shortbread base.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
