Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Imagine biting into a cookie that combines the buttery richness of shortbread with the tangy sweetness of cherries and the nutty aroma of almonds. That's exactly what you get with Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you're looking for a delightful treat to serve at a tea party or a festive addition to your holiday cookie platter. In this article, we'll take you through everything you need to know to make these delectable cookies at home. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a batch of homemade Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies that are as beautiful as they are delicious.

What are Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies?

Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies are a delightful variation of traditional shortbread cookies. Shortbread itself is a classic Scottish biscuit known for its crumbly texture and rich, buttery flavor. By adding maraschino cherries and almond extract, this recipe elevates the standard shortbread to new heights, introducing a burst of fruity sweetness and a subtle nutty undertone. These cookies are characterized by their soft yet firm texture, making them perfect for pairing with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients List for Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies

Before diving into the baking process, it's essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here's what you'll need for a batch of Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies:

• ¾ cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• ⅔ cup (134g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 1 Tablespoon (15ml) maraschino cherry juice
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 16 maraschino cherries (drained and chopped)
• Optional: 4 ounces white chocolate

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about baking is the ability to tweak recipes to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try with Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies:

1. Butter Substitution: If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute the unsalted butter with a vegan butter alternative or margarine. Just ensure it's suitable for baking to maintain the texture of the cookies.
2. Sugar Alternatives: For a slightly healthier version, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia. Keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
3. Different Extracts: While almond extract complements cherries wonderfully, you can experiment with other extracts like orange or lemon for a citrusy twist.
4. Fresh Cherries: If maraschino cherries aren't your favorite, you can use fresh or frozen cherries. Just make sure to pit and chop them finely.
5. Chocolate Drizzle: The white chocolate drizzle is optional, but you can switch it up by using dark chocolate or even omitting it altogether if you prefer a less sweet cookie.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to the step-by-step instructions for making these delicious cookies.

How to Cook Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cream the Butter: Using a handheld or stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on high speed until creamy, about 1 minute.
2. Mix in Sugar and Extracts: Switch the mixer to medium speed and add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Scrape down the sides and the bottom of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
3. Add Cherry Juice: With the mixer running on high, slowly drizzle in 1 Tablespoon of the maraschino cherry juice. Beat for 1 minute on high to incorporate fully.
4. Combine with Flour: Turn the mixer off and pour the flour into the wet ingredients. Turn the mixer on low and slowly beat until a very soft dough is formed.
5. Incorporate Chopped Cherries: With the mixer still running on low, add the chopped maraschino cherries. Beat just until the cherries are evenly distributed in the dough.
6. Chill the Dough: Press the dough down to compact it and tightly cover it with plastic wrap. Chill until firm, at least 4 hours (and up to 3 days). Properly chilled dough is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
7. Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
8. Shape the Dough: Shape the chilled cookie dough into balls, about 1 Tablespoon of dough per ball. Ensure they are smooth. If the dough becomes sticky or soft, refrigerate the balls again to firm up.
9. Bake: Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 11-12 minutes, or until the edges are very lightly browned. The cookies will puff up and spread slightly. Avoid overbaking; a shorter baking time results in softer cookies.
10. Cool and Drizzle with Chocolate: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cool completely before drizzling with melted white chocolate. Melt the white chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 20-second increments, stirring after each increment until smooth. Use a squeeze bottle for easy drizzling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced bakers can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies:

1. Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step can cause the cookies to spread too much, resulting in thin and crispy cookies instead of soft and thick ones.
2. Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
3. Incorrect Measuring: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Spoon and level the flour to avoid using too much, which can make the cookies dry.
4. Baking at Incorrect Temperature: Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature before baking. Too hot or too cold can affect the cookie's texture.
5. Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they bake. They should be just lightly browned on the edges for the best texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies

These cookies are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Tea Time: Serve with a hot cup of tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Holiday Platters: Add them to your holiday cookie platter for a festive touch.
• Gift Baskets: Package them in decorative tins or boxes for a homemade gift.
• Dessert Tables: Place them on a dessert table at parties or gatherings.

Presentation Ideas for Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies

The presentation of your cookies can make them even more appealing. Here are some ideas:

1. Chocolate Drizzle: Use a squeeze bottle to drizzle melted white chocolate in a zigzag pattern over the cooled cookies.
2. Cherry Garnish: Top each cookie with a small piece of maraschino cherry before baking for added color and flavor.
3. Festive Sprinkles: Add festive sprinkles to the cookies before the chocolate drizzle sets for a fun and colorful touch.
4. Cookie Stacks: Stack the cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for a charming presentation.

Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookie Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly:

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
2. Consistent Sizes: Shape the dough balls evenly to ensure uniform baking.
3. Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to 6 days.
4. Freezing: Both the dough and baked cookies can be frozen. Freeze the dough for up to 2 months and the baked cookies for 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries? A: Yes, you can use fresh or frozen cherries. Just make sure to pit and chop them finely.

Q: How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much? A: Chilling the dough is crucial. Ensure it's firm before baking to maintain the cookie's shape.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Absolutely! The dough can be chilled for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Q: What if I don't have almond extract? A: You can substitute with vanilla extract or try another flavor extract like orange or lemon.

Q: How can I make the cookies less sweet? A: Reduce the amount of sugar slightly or omit the white chocolate drizzle.

Conclusion

Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the classic crumbly texture of shortbread with the sweet and nutty flavors of cherries and almonds. By following this comprehensive guide, you'll be able to create these delicious cookies with ease. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a homemade treat, these cookies are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the process of making and sharing these delightful cookies. Happy baking!

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