These Chocolate Chip Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars are a delightful treat that combines the buttery goodness of classic shortbread with sweet maraschino cherries and rich chocolate chips. The combination of flavors and textures makes these bars perfect for holiday celebrations, parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. The bright red cherries add a pop of color, making these bars festive and fun for any occasion.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough will be crumbly but should come together when pressed.
Step 4: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips
- Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips. If desired, add the cherry juice for extra flavor and a slight pink hue.
Step 5: Press the Dough into the Pan
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula or your hands.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
- Once cooled, cut the shortbread into bars or squares. Serve and enjoy!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Cherries: Make sure to drain the maraschino cherries well before adding them to the dough to prevent excess moisture.
- Pressing the Dough: The dough will be crumbly, but it should come together when pressed firmly into the baking dish.
- Storage: Store the shortbread bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Recipe Variations
- Almond Flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the dough for a complementary flavor that pairs well with cherries.
- Dark Chocolate: Substitute the mini chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/4 cup of chopped almonds or pecans for added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries? A: Maraschino cherries provide a distinct flavor and sweetness, but you can use fresh cherries if you prefer. Be sure to pit and chop them, and adjust the sugar as needed since fresh cherries are less sweet.
Q: How do I prevent the shortbread from becoming too crumbly? A: The key is to ensure the butter is properly softened and to mix until the dough just comes together. If it’s still too crumbly, add an extra teaspoon of cherry juice to help bind it.
Q: Can I freeze these bars? A: Yes, these shortbread bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store 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 and festive treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of buttery shortbread, sweet cherries, and rich chocolate chips creates a delightful flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering or just because, these bars are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a classic treat with a fruity twist!
