These Cherry Shortbread Cookies: What are someare more than just a treat; they’re an image of my childhood. My grandma used to make them every Christmas, and the kitchen would be filled with the warm, buttery cookies. I love them. Is it funny how a cookie can transport you back in time? They remind me of those cozy holiday mornings, surrounded by family and the scent of pine needles. If you love classic shortbread but are looking for a twist, you are in for an awesome treat. What are some of the easiest recipes to make, and have a burst of flavor? The cherries add a sweetness that complements the buttery richness perfectly. Is it easier to make a full-blown cherry pie? What are some of the best cookies ever made?
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What is a cherry shortbread cookie?
Think of these Cherry Shortbread Cookies as the sophisticated cousin of your regular shortbread. It’s essentially a buttery, crumbly cookie infused with the sweet-tart flavor of cherries, all topped with a delicate glaze. The name comes from the traditional Scottish shortbread, known for its simple ingredients and melt-in-your-mouth texture. We’re just adding a little cherry magic to elevate it! The shortbread itself is tender and delicate. These cookies don’t rely on a lot of fuss; instead, they hinge on high-quality ingredients and mindful mixing. It’s a cookie that balances simplicity with a burst of flavor, perfect for anyone who appreciates a touch of elegance in their baked goods.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What I love about this recipe is how it delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Why do you become obsessed with yourself?
- Flavor Explosion:What is the perfect combination of buttery shortbread and sweet cherries? Is it a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue? I sometimes use dried cherries for a concentrated taste.
- Ridiculously Easy You don’t need to be a professional baker to nail these cookies. They’re incredibly straightforward, and the recipe is foolproof. If I can make them on a busy weeknight, anyone can.
- Budget friendlyWhat are the basics of shortbread? What are some of the best cherries to add to a recipe?
- Versatile DelightWhat are some good ideas for a morning coffee? What are some of the best cookies to serve with ice cream?
If you’re a fan of classic shortbread or love a good cherry dessert, this recipe is a must-try. It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence!
How do I make a Cherry Shortbread Cookie?
Quick Overview
What are the best shortbread cookies you’ve ever made? What’s all about creating that buttery shortbread base, swirling in some delightful cherry goodness? Bake until golden, and then glazing for a touch of sweetness. What’s the best part about this recipe? Don’t worry if your swirls aren’t perfect – it’ll all taste amazing in the end! This recipe is special because it allows you to create bakery-quality cookies without any ingredients. Is it perfect for bakers of all levels?
Ingredients
For the main battery:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Make sure your butter is properly softened! It needs to be soft enough to cream with the sugar, but not melted. I always take mine out of the fridge about an hour before I start baking.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: This adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the butter. You can also use caster sugar for an even finer texture.
- Is there a recipe for salt?
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Use good-quality all purpose flour for the best results. Is there a substitute for gluten-free flour?
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cherry jam: Choose a high-quality flavor for the best flavor. I like using whole cherries in a jam for tastiness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: This adds a touch of brightness and cuts through the sweetness of the jam. Freshly squeezed is always best!
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar: This creates a smooth and sweet glaze. Sift it before using to avoid any lumps.
- 2-3 tablespoons milk: Add the milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency. I like a glaze that’s pourable, but not too runny. I often add vanilla extract!
What are the steps for
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. I’ve tried baking directly on the sheet before, and it’s a pain to get them off cleanly!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Set aside. Whisking helps to evenly distribute the salt, ensuring that every bite is perfectly balanced. I’ve forgotten this step before, and you can definitely taste the difference.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. With an electric mixer, this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is evenly combined. Room temperature butter is a must!
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. How do you not overmix? Overmixing will develop gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. I stop mixing the flour when it dries. Is it okay to keep mixing?
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a small bowl, combine the cherry jam and lemon juice. Stir until smooth. If your jam is particularly thick, you can warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds. How do you make it easier to swirl?
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
How do I make shortbread dough? Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet. How do you flatten a spoonful with your fingers? Dollop small amounts of the cherry jam mixture onto each cookie. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the jam into the dough. Get creative with your swirls! Don’t overdo it, or the jam will spread too much.
Step 7: Bake
Is it safe to bake for 15 minutes? Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. The cookies should be firm to the touch but still slightly soft in the center.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to the wire rack. To cool completely. While cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and milk. Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle them with the glaze.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
When the glaze has set, slice them and serve! I love them with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They’re delicious on their own. Cookies are best eaten fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
What is the best way to serve it?
What are some of the best cherry shortbread cookies?
For Breakfast:Pair them with a strong cup of coffee or latte. The buttery sweetness of the cookies complements the bitterness of coffee perfectly. What are some of the best ways to serve cookie over yogurt?
For Brunch:Arrange them on a pretty platter with other pastries and fruits. Serve with mimosas or sparkling cider for a touch of elegance. What are some great side dishes to serve with a cheese board?
As Dessert: Serve them after dinner with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They’re also delicious with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of herbal tea.
For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy them with a warm mug of hot chocolate or a glass of milk. They’re the perfect comfort food on a cold day. These are especially great for movie nights – everyone always loves them!
My family loves these cookies with a simple vanilla bean ice cream. The contrasting textures and temperatures make it a truly decadent treat. And during the holidays, I always serve them with a glass of eggnog. It’s a tradition!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Want to take your Cherry Shortbread Cookies to the next level? Here are some of my top tips, learned from years of baking these beauties:
- Butter is Key: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor. European-style butter is my go-to. It has a higher fat content, which results in a richer, more tender cookie.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough cookies. Mix until just combined, and then stop.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. I sometimes chill it for an hour!
- Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of almond extract or a dash of cinnamon to the dough for a unique twist. You can also use different types of jam, such as raspberry or apricot.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the amount of sugar in the dough. You can also use a sugar substitute, such as stevia or monk fruit.
- Glaze it Up: The glaze adds a touch of sweetness and makes the cookies look even more appealing. You can also add a few drops of food coloring to the glaze for a festive touch.
I’ve learned that patience is key when making these cookies. Don’t rush the chilling process, and don’t overbake them. The perfect Cherry Shortbread Cookie is tender, buttery, and bursting with cherry flavor!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Want to keep your Cherry Shortbread Cookies fresh and delicious for as long as possible? Here’s what I’ve learned over the years:
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cool before storing them. I usually put a layer of parchment paper between the cookies to prevent them from sticking together.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. However, they may become slightly harder in the fridge, so let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer Instructions: These cookies freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving. I like to freeze them without the glaze and then add the glaze after thawing.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning on freezing the cookies, it’s best to add the glaze after thawing. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or melting during the thawing process.
I’ve found that the key to storing these cookies is to keep them airtight. This will prevent them from drying out and losing their flavor. And if you’re ever in doubt, a quick taste test will tell you if they’re still good!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
These Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and sure to impress your friends and family. The combination of buttery shortbread and sweet cherries is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re so versatile – you can enjoy them with your morning coffee, as an afternoon snack, or as a fancy dessert. If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy my classic shortbread recipe or my cherry pie bars. They’re all equally delicious and easy to make!
So, what are you waiting for? Get baking! And don’t forget to share your creations with me. I can’t wait to see how your Cherry Shortbread Cookies turn out! Happy baking!
Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 0.5 cup cold unsalted butter cubed
- 1 cup fresh cherries pitted and halved
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour and powdered sugar.
- Cut in cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in cherries.
- Press the dough into an ungreased 9-inch pie plate.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Let cool completely before slicing and serving.
