Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies with White Chocolate are a delightful combination of buttery shortbread, sweet cherries, crunchy almonds, and creamy white chocolate. Here's a recipe to make these delicious cookies:
Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
1/2 cup almonds, finely chopped
4 ounces white chocolate, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and almond extract until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped dried cherries and almonds until evenly distributed in the dough.
6. Shape the dough into a log, about 2 inches in diameter, and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
7. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
8. Place the cookie rounds onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
10. 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.
11. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
12. Dip one end of each cooled cookie into the melted white chocolate and place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
13. If desired, sprinkle some finely chopped almonds or dried cherries over the white chocolate while it's still wet.
14. Allow the white chocolate to set completely before serving or storing the cookies.
These Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies with White Chocolate are a delicious treat for any occasion, but they are especially perfect for holiday baking. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful cookie that is sure to impress. Enjoy!
