Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies You’ll Love!

Name: Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies You'll Love!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/2 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Isabella

Posted on December 2, 2025

Desserts

Introduction to Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to baking. That’s why I adore these Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies! They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful escape from the daily hustle. Imagine buttery cookies melting in your mouth, with bursts of sweet cherries and rich chocolate chips. This recipe is perfect for those moments when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, these cookies will become a cherished favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

These Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies are a dream come true for busy lives. They come together in just 30 minutes, making them a quick solution for unexpected guests or a sweet treat after dinner. The buttery texture combined with the tartness of cherries and the sweetness of chocolate creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for more. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing, so you can spread the joy!

Ingredients for Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter: This is the star of the show, providing that rich, buttery flavor. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Powdered sugar: This sweetener gives the cookies a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It blends beautifully with the butter.
All-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookies, it gives them structure. You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Cornstarch: This secret ingredient helps create a tender crumb. It’s what makes these cookies so light and airy.
Chocolate chips: Choose semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a rich contrast to the cherries. You can even use white chocolate for a sweeter option.
Dried cherries: These add a lovely tartness and chewy texture. If you can’t find dried cherries, dried cranberries work just as well!
Vanilla extract: A splash of this enhances the overall flavor, making your cookies taste even more delicious.
Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and elevates the flavors. Don’t skip it!

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. If the oven isn’t hot enough, your cookies might spread too much or not rise properly. So, let that oven warm up while you prepare the dough!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This process is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. The air you incorporate while mixing will help the cookies rise beautifully. Don’t rush this step; take your time to get it just right!

Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract

Next, add in the vanilla extract and mix well. Vanilla is like the secret handshake of baking—it enhances all the flavors and makes your cookies taste even more delightful. Trust me, you’ll want that extra splash of flavor!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps to evenly distribute the cornstarch and salt throughout the flour. This step is essential for ensuring that every bite of your Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies is perfectly balanced.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet

Now, gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to be tender and crumbly. Just mix until you don’t see any dry flour—simple as that!

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Time to fold in those chocolate chips and chopped cherries! Use a spatula to gently incorporate them into the dough. Folding is important here; it helps maintain the light texture of the cookies while evenly distributing the chocolate and cherries. You want every cookie to have a little bit of that sweet surprise!

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Shape the dough into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball. This allows the cookies to spread without sticking together. If you want perfectly round cookies, you can roll them in your hands before placing them on the sheet.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden. If you like a softer cookie, take them out a minute or two early. Remember, they’ll continue to cook a bit after you pull them from the oven!

Step 9: Cool the Cookies

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This helps them set up before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling is important because it prevents them from breaking apart. After a few minutes, move them to the rack to cool completely. Then, enjoy the sweet aroma filling your kitchen!

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s vital for even baking.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
Experiment with different chocolate types for varied flavors.
For extra flair, sprinkle sea salt on top before baking.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing and a smaller one for dry ingredients. You can use any bowls you have on hand.
Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a whisk will do if you’re feeling strong!
Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper is ideal for easy cleanup.
Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for folding in ingredients and scraping the bowl.

Variations of Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Minty Fresh: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
Fruit Fusion: Swap dried cherries for other dried fruits like apricots or blueberries for a different fruity experience.

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
For a festive touch, arrange them on a decorative platter with fresh cherries.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an elegant presentation.

FAQs about Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

While fresh cherries are delicious, they contain more moisture, which can affect the cookie’s texture. If you want to use fresh cherries, make sure to chop and dry them slightly before adding them to the dough.

How should I store my Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to three months!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping and baking.

What can I substitute for cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use an equal amount of all-purpose flour. However, the texture may be slightly different, so keep that in mind!

Are these cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, you can enjoy these Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies without any worries!

Final Thoughts

Making Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in the kitchen. The joy of mixing, folding, and shaping the dough brings a sense of calm amidst the chaos of daily life. Each bite of these buttery cookies, with their delightful bursts of cherries and chocolate, is a reminder of the simple pleasures we often overlook. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them alone with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face. Happy baking, and enjoy every crumb!