Sweeten Your New Year with White Chocolate-Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Ring in the New Year with these delightful White Chocolate-Cherry Shortbread Cookies! Their delicate buttery texture, a bright cherry center, and a drizzle of white chocolate make them a perfect addition to your holiday dessert table. Whether you’re hosting a countdown party or enjoying a quiet celebration at home, these cookies are sure to impress.
Ingredients
1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
20 maraschino cherries (or fresh cherries for a natural touch)
4 ounces (115g) white chocolate, melted
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Shape the Cookies:
Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a flower-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Add the Cherries:
Gently press a maraschino cherry into the center of each cookie.
4. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are just lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Drizzle with White Chocolate:
Once cooled, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cookies for a festive touch. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cooling and Decoration Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Baking Pro Tips
Chill the Dough: For more precise shapes, chill the dough for 15 minutes before rolling it out.
Even Baking: Place cookies evenly spaced on the baking sheet to ensure uniform baking.
White Chocolate Drizzle: Use a small spoon or piping bag for a cleaner drizzle.
Cherry Alternatives: Try candied cherries or a dollop of cherry jam for variety.
These White Chocolate-Cherry Shortbread Cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Their floral shape and bright cherry centers add a festive charm, while the buttery shortbread and sweet white chocolate make every bite irresistible. Add these cookies to your New Year’s dessert spread, and they’ll be the talk of the celebration. Here’s to starting the year with something sweet and memorable!