White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies

White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender, and packed with festive flavor and color. With bits of tart dried cherries and creamy white chocolate nestled into a rich shortbread base, these cookies are both elegant and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or enjoying with a warm drink, they offer a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a delightful balance of sweet and tart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are a beautiful twist on classic shortbread, combining the rich, buttery texture you love with pops of cherry and white chocolate. They’re easy to shape and slice, don’t require rolling or chilling (unless you want to), and bake into a pretty, crisp-edged treat that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re baking for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or just because, they’re sure to impress.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Dried cherries (chopped)
• White chocolate chips or chunks
• Optional: almond extract, for added flavor

directions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in vanilla extract (and almond extract if using).
4. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until dough forms.
5. Fold in chopped dried cherries and white chocolate.
6. Shape dough into a log (about 2 inches in diameter), wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes (optional for cleaner slicing).
7. Slice into ¼-inch thick rounds and place on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
9. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time (optional): 30 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: 45–60 minutes
Servings: About 24 cookies

Variations

• Dip in chocolate: Dip half of each baked cookie in melted white or dark chocolate and let set for an elegant finish.
• Add nuts: Mix in finely chopped pistachios or almonds for extra crunch and color.
• Cranberry substitute: Use dried cranberries if you prefer or don’t have cherries.
• Zesty twist: Add a bit of orange or lemon zest for brightness.
• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for a gluten-free version.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

To freeze, place baked cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries?

No, dried cherries are best. Fresh or frozen cherries add too much moisture and can make the dough soggy.

Can I use cherry extract?

Yes, for a stronger cherry flavor, add a small amount of cherry extract in place of or alongside vanilla.

Can I skip chilling the dough?

Yes, but chilling helps the cookies hold their shape better during baking.

What kind of white chocolate should I use?

White chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate bars both work. Use high-quality for best flavor.

Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for 1 month.

Do these cookies spread much?

No, shortbread holds its shape well and doesn’t spread much. Great for precise slices or shaped cookies.

Can I roll and cut the dough?

Yes, you can roll the dough to ¼ inch thick and use cookie cutters instead of slicing.

Are these cookies sweet?

They’re mildly sweet, with a rich buttery flavor balanced by tart cherries and sweet white chocolate.

Can I add food coloring for a festive touch?

Yes, a small amount of red or pink gel food coloring can be added for holiday flair.

Can I make them vegan?

Use plant-based butter and vegan white chocolate to make a dairy-free/vegan version.

Conclusion

White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies are the perfect blend of elegance and ease. With their tender crumb, creamy white chocolate, and bright cherry bursts, these cookies are ideal for festive gatherings, thoughtful gifts, or a cozy tea-time treat. Simple to make and beautifully unique, they’re a must-try for anyone who loves classic shortbread with a flavorful twist.

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