White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies – Irresistibly Delicious

As I embarked on my culinary journey with GrandMmaDelights, one recipe that quickly became a favorite in my household was the delightful White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies. These cookies bring together the creamy sweetness of white chocolate with the subtle tartness of cherries, creating a harmonious blend that is both comforting and indulgent. Each bite feels like a celebration of simple ingredients transforming into something truly special.

My love for these cookies began during a cozy afternoon spent baking with my grandmother. The kitchen was filled with warmth, laughter, and the heavenly aroma of shortbread baking in the oven. As we mixed the ingredients together, I learned that these White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies were more than just a treat—they were a connection to cherished memories and a testament to the joy of home cooking.

Through GrandMmaDelights, I aim to share this joy and inspire others to embrace the beauty of creating delicious moments from scratch. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, these cookies are perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of love to their baking endeavors. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and discover the magic of White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies together.

White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in a delightful recipe for White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Discover how to create these buttery treats that blend creamy white chocolate with tangy cherries.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) maraschino cherries drained and finely chopped (reserve the cherry liquid)
• 2 1/2 cup (600 ml) s flour
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) kosher salt
• 1 cup (240 ml) unsalted butter cold and cubed
• 12 ounce (340 g) s white chocolate finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) almond extract
• 2 drops red or purple food coloring or purple food coloring
• 2 teaspoon (10 ml) s vegetable oil
• White nonpareils and colored sanding sugar

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Instructions

1. Start by setting your oven to 325°F to warm up.
2. In a big mixing bowl, blend together the flour, sugar, and salt. Use a pastry cutter to mix in the butter. Keep mixing until you achieve a crumbly texture.
3. Mix in the chopped cherries, 2/3 cup of the white chocolate pieces, and almond extract. Add a few drops of food coloring if you like. Knead the dough until it comes together in a ball. If it’s too dry, add a bit of the cherry juice to moisten it.
4. Roll the dough into small balls, about 3/4 inch each. Arrange them on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them two inches apart. Flatten each ball to about 1.5 inches using the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar.
5. Bake them for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the centers are firm. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a minute, then move them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. In a double boiler, melt the rest of the white chocolate with the vegetable oil. Dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate. Roll the chocolate-coated edges in nonpareils or colored sanding sugar. Let the cookies rest on wax paper until the chocolate hardens.

Notes

• If the dough is dry, add reserved cherry liquid gradually to reach the right consistency.
• Blend butter with a pastry cutter or fingertips until the dough looks like coarse crumbs.
• Dip the glass bottom in sugar before pressing dough balls to prevent sticking and create a sweet surface.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: International

Nutrition

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 8g

Keywords: maraschino cherry cookies, white chocolate cookies, almond cherry cookies, shortbread cookie recipe, colored sugar cookies, double boiler chocolate

White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies: Fundamentals

Fundamentals

The foundation of any great cookie recipe lies in its ingredients and process. For White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies, we start with basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, and unsalted butter. These form the base, while maraschino cherries and white chocolate elevate the flavors to new heights. The addition of almond extract lends a subtle hint of nuttiness that complements the overall profile.

Chopping the maraschino cherries finely ensures their flavor is evenly distributed throughout each cookie. Meanwhile, the cold, cubed butter is crucial for achieving the perfect shortbread texture—crumbly yet melt-in-your-mouth soft. These elements, when combined, create a cookie that is as delightful to the taste buds as it is to the senses.

Preparation/Setup

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F. This temperature allows the cookies to bake evenly, ensuring each bite maintains a consistent texture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and kosher salt. Use a pastry cutter to incorporate the cold butter into the dry ingredients, working until the mixture achieves a crumbly consistency.

Add the finely chopped cherries, 2/3 cup of white chocolate pieces, and almond extract to the mixture. For a pop of color, incorporate a few drops of food coloring. Knead the dough gently until it forms a cohesive ball. If the dough appears too dry, a splash of reserved cherry juice can help achieve the desired texture.

Baking the Perfect White Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Technique

Once the dough is ready, roll it into small balls, roughly 3/4 inch in diameter. Arrange them on an ungreased baking sheet, ensuring there is enough space between each ball for the cookies to expand slightly during baking. Flatten each ball to about 1.5 inches using the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar. This step adds a delightful hint of sweetness to the exterior of each cookie.

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the centers are firm. The goal is to achieve a light golden color, indicating that the cookies are perfectly baked. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a minute before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips/Tricks

For an even more pronounced cherry flavor, consider adding a bit more of the reserved cherry liquid if the dough feels too dry. This not only enhances the flavor but also imparts a lovely pink hue to the cookies. When melting the remaining white chocolate for dipping, use a double boiler to ensure it melts smoothly without scorching.

To achieve a professional finish, dip one half of each cooled cookie into the melted white chocolate and then roll the chocolate-coated edge in nonpareils or colored sanding sugar. Allow the cookies to rest on wax paper until the chocolate hardens. This step not only adds a decorative touch but also a satisfying crunch.

Exploring Variations of White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Perfecting Results

For those looking to experiment further, consider incorporating different types of chocolate, such as dark or milk chocolate, into the recipe. This can create a richer flavor profile, offering a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cherries and white chocolate. Another option is to add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the melted chocolate for a sweet-salty combination.

Adjusting the ratio of cherries to white chocolate can also yield interesting variations. For those who prefer a fruitier cookie, increasing the amount of cherries will provide a more pronounced cherry flavor. Alternatively, more white chocolate can enhance the creamy sweetness of the cookies.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your dough seems too sticky, refrigerating it for a short period can make it easier to handle. Chilling the dough also helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a more cohesive cookie. On the other hand, if the dough is too dry, adding a touch more cherry juice or a small amount of vegetable oil can restore the balance.

For those interested in a vegan twist, consider using plant-based butter and chocolate alternatives. This adaptation maintains the essential flavors while catering to dietary preferences, making these cookies accessible to a wider audience. For more inspiration, check out these Vegan Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Serving and Storing White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Serving/Presentation

When it comes to serving White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies, presentation adds an extra layer of enjoyment. Arrange these cookies on a decorative platter, allowing the colors and textures to shine. For festive occasions, consider placing them on a tiered stand alongside other treats like these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.

These cookies make an excellent addition to any dessert table, offering a burst of flavor and visual appeal. Their vibrant appearance makes them especially suitable for holidays or gatherings, where they can be the star attraction among other homemade delights.

Pairings/Storage

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. The subtle almond notes and cherry sweetness complement these beverages perfectly, enhancing the overall experience. For storage, keep the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness for up to a week.

If you plan to enjoy them over a longer period, consider freezing the cookies. Simply place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. This method ensures that the cookies retain their texture and flavor, ready to be savored whenever the craving strikes.

Conclusion

White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. Their simplicity and elegance make them a favorite for both novice bakers and seasoned experts. The combination of maraschino cherries and white chocolate creates a unique taste experience that is both comforting and indulgent.

These cookies highlight the magic of transforming simple ingredients into a treat that brings joy to any gathering. Their versatility allows for endless variations, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re serving them at a festive gathering or enjoying a quiet moment at home, these cookies are sure to impress.

For more delicious cookie recipes, explore our collection, including these Whipped Shortbread Cookies and the Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe. Each recipe offers its unique twist on classic flavors, inviting you to discover the joys of home baking.

FAQs – White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies