These Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are a delightful treat that combines the buttery goodness of classic shortbread with the sweetness of maraschino cherries and the irresistible taste of chocolate chips. The combination of flavors and textures makes these bars perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or whenever you need a little indulgence. They’re easy to make and look beautiful, with specks of bright red cherries and rich chocolate in every bite.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
- 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tougher shortbread.
- Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips
- Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Press Dough into Pan
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use your hands or the back of a spatula to create an even layer.
- Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
- Slice and Serve
- Once the shortbread is completely cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift it out of the pan. Cut into bars or squares and serve.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Drain Cherries Well: Be sure to thoroughly drain and pat dry the maraschino cherries to prevent adding excess moisture to the dough.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft to press into the pan, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to firm up slightly.
- Storage: Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be refrigerated for longer freshness.
Recipe Variations
- White Chocolate Cherry Bars: Substitute mini chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Nutty Addition: Add 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for added crunch and flavor.
- Cherry-Almond Twist: Add 1/2 teaspoon almond extract to the dough to complement the flavor of the maraschino cherries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries? A: Fresh cherries can be used, but they should be pitted, chopped, and dried thoroughly before adding to the dough. The flavor will be slightly less sweet compared to maraschino cherries.
Q: Can I double the recipe? A: Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. The baking time may need to be adjusted slightly, so keep an eye on the bars as they bake.
Q: Can I freeze these bars? A: Absolutely! Wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
These Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are a delicious combination of buttery shortbread, sweet cherries, and rich chocolate that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and full of delightful flavors, they’re sure to become a favorite treat in your home. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these tasty bars with family and friends!
