Cherry shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly combines buttery goodness with the tart sweetness of cherries. As the cherry season approaches, I find myself craving these tender cookies that evoke memories of family gatherings and sunny afternoons. There’s something incredibly special about the delicate crumb and melt-in-your-mouth texture of shortbread, especially when paired with vibrant cherries. That’s why I created this post—to share my love for cherry shortbread cookies with you.
If you’re a fan of baking, particularly if you enjoy experimenting with cherry dessert recipes, this one’s for you. Whether you’re gluten-free, want to impress your friends, or simply need an easy cherry cookie recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth, I’ve got you covered. I pulled together ten unique cherry shortbread cookie recipes that are buttery, tender, and bursting with flavor, perfect for any occasion.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a treasure trove of cherry shortbread cookie variations to try out. From classic recipes to gluten-free options, you’ll learn how to whip up these delightful treats that not only taste amazing but also fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookies. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into the world of cherry shortbread cookies!
Key Takeaways
– Explore 10 delicious cherry shortbread cookie recipes that cater to both traditional and gluten-free diets.
– Each recipe is designed to be buttery and tender, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.
– Discover unique flavor combinations like cherry almond, coconut, and mocha to spice up your baking repertoire.
– Learn practical tips for perfecting your shortbread cookies, including ingredient substitutions and baking techniques.
– Get inspired to create delightful cherry desserts that make any occasion special, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations.
How To Choose The Right Cherry Shortbread Cookie Recipe
Choosing the perfect cherry shortbread cookie recipe can be a delightful yet daunting task. Here are some factors to consider:
1. Flavor Profile: Think about which flavors you enjoy most. Do you prefer classic cherry, or are you intrigued by combinations like chocolate or almond? Selecting a recipe that aligns with your taste will enhance your baking experience.
2. Dietary Restrictions: If you or your guests have dietary needs, look for gluten-free options. Many cherry shortbread recipes can be adapted for gluten-free baking without losing their texture or flavor.
3. Level of Difficulty: Assess your baking skills. Some recipes are straightforward and perfect for beginners, while others may require more advanced techniques. Choose a recipe that matches your confidence level in the kitchen.
4. Ingredients on Hand: Check your pantry before selecting a recipe. Opt for recipes that use ingredients you already have to streamline your baking process.
5. Occasion: Consider the event for which you are baking. Some cherry shortbread cookies are more festive and visually appealing, while others might be better suited for casual gatherings or everyday treats.
Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to mix and match flavors! If you find two recipes you love, try combining elements to create a unique cherry shortbread cookie that suits your taste.
How Do Cherry Shortbread Cookies Work?
Making cherry shortbread cookies is a simple process that yields delicious results. Here’s a breakdown of how the magic happens:
1. Closed – Start with Room Temperature Butter: Begin with softened butter, which ensures easy mixing and creates a light texture in your cookies.
2. Opened – Cream the Butter and Sugar: Blend the butter with sugar until fluffy. This step incorporates air, leading to a tender cookie.
3. Closed – Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour and other dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to tough cookies.
4. Opened – Fold in Cherries: Gently fold in chopped cherries, ensuring even distribution without breaking them down too much.
5. Closed – Shape and Chill: Shape the dough into logs or individual cookies and chill. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Best for: Cherry shortbread cookies are perfect for parties, tea time, or simply as a sweet snack to enjoy with your afternoon coffee.
How To Use Your Cherry Shortbread Cookie Dough
Once you’ve made your cherry shortbread cookie dough, it’s time to put it to good use. Here’s how to get the most out of your dough:
Tools You’ll Need:
– Mixing Bowl
– Baking Sheet
– Parchment Paper
– Cookie Cutter (if desired)
Step 1: Measure & Prep
✔ Gather all ingredients and tools.
✔ Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature, typically around 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Shape the Dough
✔ Shape your dough into logs or flatten it into a disc for cutting later.
✔ Wrap the formed dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Slice or Cut
✔ If you chilled the dough in logs, slice to your desired thickness once firm.
✔ If using a disc, roll out and cut shapes with cookie cutters.
Step 4: Bake
✔ Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal.
✔ Place your cookies on the sheet and bake according to the recipe, usually 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Cool & Enjoy
✔ Once baked, let your cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
⏱ Time: ~1 hour total | 💡 Tip: Experiment by adding a glaze or sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an extra touch!
1. Classic Cherry Shortbread Cookies
Craving a cookie that melts in your mouth? These classic cherry shortbread cookies are just what you need! The buttery richness mingles beautifully with juicy cherries, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, whether enjoyed plain or with a drizzle of icing. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how satisfying they are to eat!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2/3 cup powdered sugar
– 2 1/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually mix in the gluten-free flour and salt, then fold in the chopped cherries and vanilla extract.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
6. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
FAQs:
– Can I use fresh cherries? Yes, but make sure to pit and chop them finely, and reduce the amount slightly as they have more moisture.
Classic Cherry Shortbread Cookies
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Cup4Cup Wholesome Flour, 2 Pounds, Certified Gluten Free, 1:1 Whole Whea…
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Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour, 25 Pound
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King Arthur Flour Measure for Measure Flour, Gluten Free, 3 Lb, (Pack Of 4)
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2. Gluten-Free Cherry Almond Shortbread
Looking for a gluten-free delight? These cherry almond shortbread cookies are sure to please! The combination of ground almonds and dried cherries adds a rich, nutty flavor that beautifully complements the buttery sweetness of the shortbread. Plus, they’re simple to whip up and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/3 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy. Mix in the almond extract.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the almond flour, gluten-free flour, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms. Fold in the chopped cherries.
5. Shape the dough into logs, wrap in wax paper, and refrigerate for one hour.
6. Slice the logs into rounds and place them on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are golden. Cool on a wire rack.
FAQs:
– How do I store these cookies? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Gluten-Free Cherry Almond Shortbread
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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:14 AM
BOB’S RED MILL Flour Almond Blanched, Size (32 OZ, Pack – 2)
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Yupik Organic Blanched Almond Meal/Flour, (35.3 OZ), Non-GMO, Vegan, Glu…
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Want to treat yourself to a tropical delight? These cherry coconut shortbread cookies are the answer! With chewy shredded coconut and sweet cherries, they create a delicious contrast in flavors and textures that everyone will adore. Plus, they’re quick to make for any sweet craving you have!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup sugar
– 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
2. Cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy.
3. In another bowl, mix the gluten-free flour and baking powder.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, stirring until well combined. Fold in the shredded coconut and cherries.
5. Scoop dough onto the baking sheet and flatten slightly.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes until golden around the edges. Cool completely.
FAQs:
– Can I use fresh cherries? Dried cherries work best for the texture, but you can substitute if fresh are available.
Cherry shortbread cookies prove that a tropical twist can be effortless. These Cherry Coconut Shortbread Cookies mix chewy coconut with sweet cherries for texture you can’t forget—plus they bake quickly, so you can satisfy cravings fast and share the bliss.
Cherry Coconut Shortbread Cookies
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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:16 AM
Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free All Purpose Baking Flour, 44 Oz (4 Pack)
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Cherry Bay Orchards – Dried Montmorency Tart Cherries (4 lb. box) – 100%…
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Kirkland Signature Dried Natural Cherries 20 Ounce (20 Ounce Bags (2 Pack))
Amazon$31.494. Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread
Indulging in a cookie that combines cherry and chocolate is pure bliss! These cherry chocolate chip shortbread cookies bring together the sweetness of cherries and rich chocolate chips, making them irresistibly delicious. The buttery shortbread melts in your mouth, and the chocolate adds a fun texture you won’t forget!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2/3 cup powdered sugar
– 2 cups gluten-free flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment.
2. Cream the butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
3. Mix the gluten-free flour and baking soda in a separate bowl, then combine with the butter mixture.
4. Fold in the chocolate chips and cherries until evenly distributed.
5. Drop spoonfuls onto the baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes until golden.
6. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.
FAQs:
– What kind of cherries can I use? Dried cherries work best, but you can use fresh in small amounts for added moisture.
Cherry Chocolate Chip Shortbread
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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:14 AM
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5. Cherry Pistachio Shortbread
Ready to elevate your cookie game? These cherry pistachio shortbread cookies offer a delicious combination of crunchy pistachios and sweet cherries. Not only are they visually stunning, but they also bring together delightful textures and flavors that will impress anyone who tries them!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup sugar
– 2 cups gluten-free flour
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and sugar together in a bowl until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the gluten-free flour, mixing until incorporated. Fold in the pistachios and cherries.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the baking sheet, flattening slightly.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
FAQs:
– Can I use raw pistachios? Yes, raw pistachios are great, but roasted ones add extra flavor!
Cherry Pistachio Shortbread
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Looking to brighten your day? These cherry orange shortbread cookies bring a zesty twist to your cookie jar! The bright orange zest beautifully complements the cherries, resulting in a refreshing and deliciously sweet cookie perfect for citrus lovers. You won’t want to miss out on this flavor explosion!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2/3 cup powdered sugar
– 2 cups gluten-free flour
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
2. Cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the orange zest.
4. Gradually add the gluten-free flour until a dough forms, then fold in chopped cherries.
5. Shape the dough into balls and place on the baking sheet, flattening slightly.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Cool before serving.
FAQs:
– Is there a substitute for orange zest? Lemon zest can be used in a pinch for a different citrus flavor.
Fun fact: just 1 tablespoon of orange zest can boost aroma and brightness in cherry shortbread cookies by up to 40%. Pair it with chopped dried cherries for a zesty, buttery bite.
Cherry Orange Zest Shortbread
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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:18 AM
King Arthur Flour Measure for Measure Flour, Gluten Free, 3 Lb, (Pack Of 4)
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Craving a hearty treat? These cherry walnut shortbread cookies are just what you need! The combination of crunchy walnuts and chewy cherries creates a fantastic texture contrast in every bite. Perfect for snacking or enjoying alongside your favorite hot beverage, they’re a delight for any time of day!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2/3 cup sugar
– 2 cups gluten-free flour
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
2. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the gluten-free flour, ensuring everything is mixed well. Fold in the walnuts and cherries.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the baking sheet and flatten slightly.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Allow to cool completely before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I use different nuts? Absolutely! Pecans or almonds would work wonderfully as substitutes.
Cherry Walnut Shortbread Cookies
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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:19 AM
King Arthur Flour Measure for Measure Flour, Gluten Free, 3 Lb, (Pack Of 4)
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Cherry Bay Orchards – Dried Montmorency Tart Cherries (4 lb. box) – 100%…
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Kirkland Signature Dried Natural Cherries 20 Ounce (20 Ounce Bags (2 Pack))
Amazon$31.498. Cherry Vanilla Shortbread Cookies
Simplicity never tasted so good! These cherry vanilla shortbread cookies celebrate the natural sweetness of cherries paired with pure vanilla extract. The result is a sweet, buttery cookie that’s perfect for any occasion. You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds, and maybe even thirds!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2/3 cup powdered sugar
– 2 cups gluten-free flour
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the gluten-free flour until a soft dough forms. Fold in the chopped cherries.
4. Roll the dough into balls and place them on the baking sheet, flattening them slightly.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely before enjoying.
FAQs:
– Can I use imitation vanilla? Yes, but pure vanilla extract will give you a richer flavor.
Cherry Vanilla Shortbread Cookies
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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:18 AM
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Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour, 25 Pound
Amazon$86.509. Cherry Lemon Shortbread Cookies
Get ready for a zingy treat! These cherry lemon shortbread cookies are bursting with flavor. The tartness of lemon zest paired with the sweetness of cherries creates a refreshing combination that’s perfect for summer gatherings or whenever you need a little sunshine in your day!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2/3 cup powdered sugar
– 2 cups gluten-free flour
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and powdered sugar together until fluffy. Mix in the lemon zest.
3. Gradually add the gluten-free flour until combined. Fold in the cherries.
4. Roll into balls, flatten slightly, and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden.
5. Allow to cool completely before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I use lemon juice instead of zest? Zest is preferred as it holds more flavor, but a little juice can work in a pinch.
Cherry Lemon Shortbread Cookies
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10. Cherry Mocha Shortbread Cookies
If you love coffee, these cherry mocha shortbread cookies are a must-try! The rich, earthy flavor of cocoa combined with the sweetness of cherries creates a unique cookie that pairs perfectly with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy them as a cozy afternoon treat that will warm your heart!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2/3 cup powdered sugar
– 1 3/4 cups gluten-free flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream together the butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
3. Mix in the gluten-free flour and cocoa powder until well combined. Fold in the cherries.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the baking sheet and flatten slightly.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set. Cool completely before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I substitute cocoa powder? Yes, you can use carob powder for a non-chocolate alternative.
Fun fact: The cocoa and cherries in cherry shortbread cookies create a cozy, mocha vibe that pairs perfectly with a morning cup of coffee. Bake them gluten-free with gluten-free flour for a tender bite every time. Your afternoon treat just got tastier!
Cherry Mocha Shortbread Cookies
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Price updated on December 19, 2025 at 10:22 AM
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Cherry shortbread cookies offer a delicious way to enjoy the sweet and tart flavor of cherries in various delightful forms. From classic recipes to fun twists with added flavors, there’s a cherry shortbread cookie for everyone.
Try these recipes at home, share them with friends and family, and make your baking adventures a sweet success! Which ones will you try first?
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make gluten-free cherry shortbread cookies that stay tender and buttery?
To make gluten-free cherry shortbread cookies that stay tender and buttery, start with a reliable gluten-free flour blend and a touch of starch to mimic traditional shortbread. Use a mix like rice flour + potato starch + a little tapioca, plus about 1 tablespoon of cornstarch per cup of flour for extra tenderness. Cream cold butter with powdered sugar until pale and fluffy, then blend in the gluten-free flour blend, a pinch of salt, and dried cherries (or chopped frozen cherries well-drained). Chill the dough, shape into a disk or logs, and slice or press into cookies. Bake at roughly 325–350°F until the edges are just set and the centers look pale. Let them cool completely and store in an airtight container to keep that tender texture. With these steps you get cherry shortbread cookies that are buttery and perfect for shortbread cookie variations and other cherry dessert recipes.
Enjoy them with tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish.
What ingredients and flavor tweaks make these easy cherry cookies stand out in cherry dessert recipes?
These easy cherry cookies shine with a few simple flavor tweaks. Add lemon zest or a drop of almond extract to brighten the cherry flavor, and fold in chopped dried cherries or mini chocolate chips. For a more intense cherry aroma, swirl in a thin layer of cherry jam before baking. If you’re baking gluten-free, stick to a reliable gluten-free flour blend and keep the dough well chilled. By applying classic buttery cookie recipes techniques, you can craft any number of shortbread cookie variations without losing the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes cherry dessert recipes so appealing.
Tip: try a quick zest-and-extract combo for a personalized twist.
Can I prepare cherry shortbread dough ahead of time or freeze it for later?
Absolutely. You can make cherry shortbread dough ahead or freeze it for later. Wrap dough logs tightly and refrigerate up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month. Bake from chilled or semi-frozen dough—if frozen, add 1–2 minutes to the bake time. Thaw frozen dough in the fridge before slicing for best results. This makes it easy to have fresh easy cherry cookies on hand for whenever a craving hits and to round out your collection of cherry dessert recipes.
Pro tip: label with the date so you know exactly how long it’s been waiting in the freezer.
What tips prevent cherry shortbread cookies from crumbling and ensure the texture stays tender?
To keep cherry shortbread cookies from crumbling and ensure a truly tender bite, follow these practical tips: keep the dough cold and handle it gently, avoid overmixing, and roll or press with a light touch. The dough benefits from a touch of cornstarch and the right fat-to-flour balance so it stays cohesive. Bake until the edges are just lightly golden and the centers look set but not dry. Store baked cookies in an airtight container to maintain moisture and texture, so every bite stays tender and buttery, perfect for pairs of cherry shortbread cookies.
Perfect for gifting or sharing as part of a cherry dessert recipes lineup.
What are some shortbread cookie variations I can try with cherries to keep the recipe exciting?
Here are some fun shortbread cookie variations you can try with cherries: substitute part of the gluten-free flour with almond flour for a nutty twist; add a teaspoon of vanilla or orange blossom water for a fragrant note; fold in chopped pistachios or white chocolate chips for texture; or dust with powdered sugar after baking for a delicate finish. You can also swirl in cherry jam or press a layer of jam into the dough before slicing for a vibrant cherry dessert experience. These twists keep the recipe fresh while preserving the classic buttery and tender base that makes cherry shortbread cookies so appealing.
Related Topics
cherry shortbread cookies
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