Shortbread Sticks with Dried Cherries: A Crispy and Sweet Treat

Shortbread cookies are a timeless classic, loved for their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate flavor. When you add dried cherries to the mix, you create a dessert that combines the rich, crispy texture of shortbread with the sweet, tart pop of dried fruit. These shortbread sticks with dried cherries are not only simple to make but are also a deliciously unique treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, enjoying them with a cup of tea, or gifting them to friends, these shortbread sticks with dried cherries will impress everyone with their delightful flavor and beautiful appearance. The sweetness of the cherries pairs beautifully with the richness of the shortbread, creating a balance that’s perfect for anyone who loves a slightly fruity twist on classic cookies.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to make these irresistible shortbread sticks, share some tips for perfecting the texture, and explore ways to customize the recipe for different occasions. Let’s get started!

Health Benefits of Dried Cherries

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to discuss the health benefits of the dried cherries that give this dessert a delicious twist. While shortbread cookies are a treat, adding dried cherries can provide an extra boost of nutrients that make them a little more wholesome.

Dried Cherries:

  • Rich in Antioxidants: Dried cherries are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help reduce inflammation and fight oxidative stress in the body. These antioxidants also support heart health and may improve brain function.
  • High in Vitamin C: Dried cherries are a great source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
  • Good for Digestion: Cherries contain fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain gut health. The fiber also promotes a feeling of fullness, which can help regulate appetite.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Regular consumption of cherries has been linked to reduced inflammation and pain relief, particularly in people with arthritis.

By adding dried cherries to your shortbread, you're not only enhancing the flavor but also incorporating a healthy fruit that offers a variety of benefits.

Ingredients for Shortbread Sticks with Dried Cherries

To make these delightful shortbread sticks with dried cherries, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Shortbread:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Dried Cherries:

  • 1/2 cup dried cherries (roughly chopped)

These ingredients will create a perfect base for the shortbread, with the dried cherries adding natural sweetness and a slight tartness that balances out the richness of the butter.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Shortbread Sticks with Dried Cherries

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Stir to combine. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You can also use a food processor for this step, pulsing until the mixture forms a dough.

Add the vanilla extract and mix until the dough begins to come together. If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of cold water at a time until it forms a smooth, cohesive dough.

Step 3: Add the Dried Cherries

Once the dough is ready, fold in the chopped dried cherries. Gently mix them into the dough, ensuring that they’re evenly distributed. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can result in tough cookies.

Step 4: Shape the Shortbread Sticks

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Once you have the desired shape, cut the dough into long, thin strips using a sharp knife or pastry cutter. These strips will bake into the signature shortbread sticks.

Place the cut dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 5: Bake the Shortbread

Bake the shortbread sticks in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as shortbread can go from perfectly baked to overdone very quickly.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once the shortbread sticks are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will firm up as they cool, giving them a crisp texture.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the shortbread sticks have cooled, serve them as a sweet snack, dessert, or gift. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with a hot cup of tea for a relaxing treat.

Tips for Perfect Shortbread Sticks with Dried Cherries

  • Use Cold Butter: The butter should be cold and cut into small cubes before mixing. This will help create the flaky, tender texture that shortbread is known for.
  • Don’t Overmix: Shortbread dough should be handled as little as possible to ensure a light, tender texture. Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies.
  • Customize the Fruit: If you don’t have dried cherries, you can substitute them with dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins for a different flavor profile.
  • Add Chocolate: For a decadent twist, consider drizzling melted dark or white chocolate over the cooled shortbread sticks or mixing some chocolate chips into the dough.

Creative Variations of Shortbread Sticks with Dried Cherries

While this basic recipe is delicious, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes:

  • Chocolate Dipped: After baking and cooling, dip the ends of the shortbread sticks in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
  • Lemon Zest: Add some lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist that complements the dried cherries.
  • Nuts: Add chopped nuts, such as pistachios or almonds, to the dough for added crunch and flavor.
  • Spiced Version: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced variation, perfect for fall.

When to Serve Shortbread Sticks with Dried Cherries

These shortbread sticks with dried cherries are perfect for a variety of occasions:

  • Afternoon Tea: Serve them as part of an afternoon tea spread alongside other cookies and pastries.
  • Family Gatherings: These shortbread sticks make a wonderful snack to share with family and friends during casual get-togethers or holiday gatherings.
  • Gifts: Package them in a cute tin or box and give them as homemade gifts for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions.
  • Snack: Enjoy them on their own as a sweet snack with coffee or tea during the day.

Conclusion: A Delightful Sweet Treat

Shortbread sticks with dried cherries are the perfect balance of buttery richness and fruity sweetness. The crumbly, tender texture of the shortbread paired with the chewy, tart cherries makes for a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just looking for a delicious, easy dessert, this recipe will not disappoint.

Try these shortbread sticks today, and enjoy the comforting flavors of buttery shortbread and sweet cherries in every bite!

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