Melt in your mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines buttery goodness with sweet, tangy cherries. This recipe is simple yet delivers an incredible flavor, making it an appealing addition to any dessert table or a sweet afternoon snack.

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Why You’ll Love This Melt In Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies

These cookies are a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. The buttery shortbread base melts in your mouth, while the chopped maraschino cherries add a burst of flavor that keeps you coming back for more. They are easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and steps, making them an excellent choice for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, with the optional addition of nuts, you can customize the cookies to your liking. Whether for a family gathering or a casual treat at home, these cookies are sure to impress.

How to Make Melt In Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped and drained
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Extra powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.
Add the vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt, ensuring there are no lumps.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and chopped nuts, if using, until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Flatten each cookie slightly with your fingers or the bottom of a glass to create uniform cookies.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should look slightly soft in the center but will firm up as they cool.
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, dust the cookies with extra powdered sugar if desired for an appealing finish.

How to Serve Melt In Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies

These cookies shine on their own but can also be served with a few complementary items. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. To make them even more special, consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, decorate the serving plate with a few fresh cherries or sprinkle some crushed nuts around the cookies.

How to Store Melt In Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies

To store these cookies, place them in an airtight container. They will keep well at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you prefer, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just ensure they are fully cooled before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or placing them in a freezer-safe container.

Tips to Make Melt In Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies Perfect

Ensure all ingredients, especially the butter, are at room temperature for better mixing.
Pay careful attention to not overmix the dough once you add the flour. This helps ensure the cookies remain tender and melt-in-your-mouth.
For a burst of color and flavor, consider adding some finely grated lemon zest to the dough. This can brighten the overall taste.
If using nuts, make sure they are toasted for extra flavor and crunch. Toasting enhances their nuttiness and adds depth to your cookies.

Flavor Variations

While the classic version of these cookies is delightful, feel free to experiment with the flavors. Here are some ideas:

Chocolate Cherry: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, chocolatey contrast with the cherries.
Almond Cherry: Swap vanilla extract with almond extract for a lovely nutty flavor.
Coconut Cherry: Incorporate shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical twist.
Lemon Cherry: Add lemon zest and a bit of lemon juice to the mixture for a refreshing citrus flavor.

Pro Tips for Success

When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This ensures you’re using the correct amount and helps prevent dense cookies.
Always chop maraschino cherries into small pieces and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
If the dough is too sticky, you can chill it for about 30 minutes before baking. This will make it easier to handle.

FAQs About Melt In Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies

1. Can I use other types of cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh or frozen cherries as a substitute for maraschino cherries. Make sure to chop them finely and remove excess moisture. Fresh cherries will give your cookies a more natural flavor, while frozen cherries will need to be thawed and drained.

2. What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
If you run out of powdered sugar, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar in a blender until it becomes a fine powder. Alternatively, you can use more granulated sugar, but be aware that it may alter the texture a bit.

3. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Cherry Shortbread Cookies, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum or add it if your blend does not contain it. This helps maintain the structure and texture of the cookies.

Final Thoughts

Melt in your mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone will love. With their simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether you enjoy them on your own or share them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a delicious batch of cherry shortbread cookies that melt in your mouth!

Melt In Your Mouth Cherry Shortbread Cookies