White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies Recipe

There’s something magically nostalgic and utterly decadent about sinking your teeth into these White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Imagine buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread speckled with sweet-tart dried cherries and creamy white chocolate, all wrapped in a delicate, golden crumb. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, gifting, or just treating yourself to a teatime delight, this recipe brings together all the elements of comfort and celebration—each bite is a little burst of joy!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each simple ingredient here is chosen for a reason, and together, they create those truly unforgettable White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Every component, from the rich butter to the spark of dried cherries, adds a unique layer of flavor, texture, or a pop of color.

• Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): Gives the cookies their tender crumb and buttery richness.
• Powdered Sugar (½ cup): Dissolves easily for a perfectly smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Subtly lifts the flavors and adds welcoming warmth.
• All-purpose Flour (2 cups): The foundation for classic shortbread sturdiness and structure.
• Finely Chopped Dried Cherries (½ cup): Infuses each cookie with bursts of sweet-tart flavor and vibrant color.
• White Chocolate Chips or Chunks (¾ cup): Melty, creamy morsels for luxurious bites in every cookie.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the buttery notes.
• Optional Drizzle: White Chocolate Chips (½ cup) & Coconut Oil or Shortening (1 teaspoon): Finishing touch for extra elegance and sweetness.

How to Make White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Begin by grabbing your largest mixing bowl and beater. Cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy—this is the soul of perfect shortbread. The sugar dissolves into the butter, setting the stage for that signature, tender texture.

Step 2: Blend in the Vanilla

Mix in the vanilla extract next. This tiny step is where the cookies get their subtle, warming aroma. Don’t rush this—it’s what rounds out the flavor and makes the whole batch feel special from the very first whiff of the dough.

Step 3: Add Flour and Salt

Gradually sift in the flour and salt, mixing on a low speed or by hand to prevent overworking the dough. The mixture may seem crumbly at first, but as you continue, it will come together into a beautiful, cohesive shortbread dough.

Step 4: Stir in Cherries and White Chocolate

Gently fold in those bright dried cherries and dreamy white chocolate chips or chunks. Every stir is like scattering little flavor gems throughout the dough, ensuring each cookie will be loaded with those trademark bursts of color and creaminess.

Step 5: Form and Chill the Dough

Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter, wrap it snugly in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the fridge for at least one hour. This resting time allows the butter to firm up, and helps the cookies hold their crisp, round shape during baking.

Step 6: Slice and Bake

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice your chilled dough into ¼-inch thick rounds and arrange them an inch apart. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes—the edges should be just lightly golden for the perfect delicate crunch. Let them cool for a few minutes on the sheet, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 7: Add the Optional Drizzle

If you’re feeling a little extra (and who isn’t?), melt together the white chocolate chips and coconut oil in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies for a glossy, bakery-worthy finish.

How to Serve White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar creates a snowy, enchanting effect, while a few more chopped dried cherries or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can elevate both the look and flavor. That white chocolate drizzle, of course, is always a crowd-pleaser!

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cup of creamy hot chocolate, robust coffee, or a delicate white tea. For a dessert platter, they play beautifully alongside fresh berries, lemon bars, or pistachio biscotti for a harmonious symphony of colors and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking a few cookies in a clear cellophane bag tied with ribbon as a delightful gift. For festive occasions, arrange them in a circle on a plate and scatter extra white chocolate shavings and cherries in the center. They also look stunning on tiered stands for afternoon teas or celebrations!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week, making them perfect for holiday prep or weekday snacking.

Freezing

These cookies are freezer-friendly, both baked and unbaked. Wrap the dough log tightly and freeze for up to three months. Or, freeze the baked (and cooled) cookies in a zip-top bag with parchment between layers—just defrost at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

If you love a warm cookie, pop a baked shortbread in the microwave for a few seconds. The white chocolate will be just slightly melty and the whole cookie delightfully fragrant—like a bakery fresh moment any time at all.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried in White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies?

Fresh cherries will add too much moisture to the dough and may affect texture, but you can use well-drained, patted-dry maraschino cherries for a vibrant, bright cherry flavor.

Do I really need to chill the dough before baking?

Yes, chilling the dough is essential for sliceable, clean rounds and that classic crisp-edged shortbread texture. It also allows the flavors to meld and the butter to solidify, which helps the cookies keep their shape in the oven.

How can I prevent my shortbread from spreading too much?

The key is in keeping the dough cold—don’t skip the chilling step, and avoid handling the dough too much before baking. If your kitchen is quite warm, chill the slices on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before they go into the oven.

Can I use semisweet or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Absolutely! While white chocolate provides a sweet, creamy contrast to the cherries, semisweet or dark chocolate will add a deeper, more robust flavor—feel free to make the recipe your own!

Are White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies good for gifting?

They’re made for it! The cookies hold their shape, taste wonderful days after baking, and look beautiful in gift boxes or bags. Don’t forget that optional drizzle for an extra-special presentation.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to turn simple ingredients into pure cookie magic, you have to try these White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies. There’s nothing like sharing a fresh-baked batch with loved ones—or sneaking a few just for yourself. Happy baking!

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