Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Whipped Shortbread Cookies are the ultimate treat for anyone who enjoys a delicate, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. These cookies are a classic holiday favorite, known for their smooth texture and rich, buttery flavor. With a hint of vanilla and almond extract, they offer a deliciously sweet aroma that fills the house as they bake.

The key to these shortbread cookies is in the whipping process, which creates a light, airy texture that practically dissolves on your tongue. The maraschino cherry on top adds a festive touch and a burst of sweetness, making these cookies a perfect addition to any holiday platter or special occasion. They’re incredibly easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients, but the end result is a treat that looks as beautiful as it tastes.

Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a cookie exchange, or just because, these Whipped Shortbread Cookies are sure to impress with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle almond flavor. Best of all, they’re easy enough to bake that even beginners can enjoy them without any hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Delicate Texture – The whipped dough creates an airy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible.
2. Simple Ingredients – Made with just a few pantry staples like butter, sugar, and flour, these cookies are easy to whip up.
3. Perfect for Holidays – With their pretty maraschino cherry topping, these cookies are perfect for holiday baking and cookie exchanges.
4. Customizable Flavor – While the almond and vanilla extracts give these cookies a delightful flavor, you can easily switch them out for other flavors like lemon or hazelnut.
5. Quick and Easy – The dough comes together in minutes and bakes quickly, so you can enjoy these cookies in no time.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Salt
• Vanilla extract
• Almond extract
• Maraschino cherries (well-drained and patted dry)

Variations

• Different Toppings: Instead of maraschino cherries, you can top the cookies with colored sugar, mini chocolate chips, or sprinkles for a festive look.
• Citrus Flavor: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or orange zest to the dough for a fresh, citrusy twist.
• Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of the baked cookies in melted chocolate for an indulgent, chocolate-covered variation.
• Nuts: Top the cookies with crushed pistachios, almonds, or pecans for added texture and flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add in the vanilla and almond extracts and mix until combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until everything is combined. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place each dough ball on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart. Gently press the top of each cookie with a fork or your fingers to slightly flatten it.

Step 5: Add the Cherry Topping

Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each cookie, pressing it down gently to secure it in place.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies are delicate and should remain light in color.

Step 7: Cool

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Butter Temperature: Make sure the butter is softened but not melted. Softened butter is key to achieving the light, whipped texture.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft to shape, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking.
• Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
• Drain the Cherries Well: Make sure to thoroughly drain and dry the maraschino cherries to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the dough’s consistency.

How to Serve

Whipped Shortbread Cookies are perfect for serving at holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or as an afternoon treat with tea or coffee. The sweet cherry on top adds a festive touch, making them an ideal addition to any dessert tray. You can also pack them into cute boxes or jars for gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’re storing them for longer, consider freezing them to maintain freshness.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature. If you prefer them warm, reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds, but be careful not to overheat them.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter is best for this recipe to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture, margarine can be used as a substitute. However, the cookies may not have the same richness.

2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the cornstarch and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

3. Can I use a different type of cherry?

You can use glace cherries or even chocolate chips if you prefer a different topping, but maraschino cherries are traditional for this recipe.

4. How do I prevent the cherries from sliding off?

Make sure to drain and pat the cherries dry before adding them to the cookies. You can also gently press them into the dough so they stay in place while baking.

5. Can I use flavored extracts instead of almond?

Yes! You can substitute almond extract with hazelnut, coconut, or even lemon extract for a different flavor profile.

6. Why are my cookies spreading too much?

If your dough is too warm, the cookies may spread. Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to help prevent spreading.

7. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months and bake them fresh when you’re ready.

8. Can I make these cookies without cornstarch?

Cornstarch helps to give the cookies their light, tender texture. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can try substituting with an equal amount of all-purpose flour, though the texture may not be as delicate.

9. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled if you’re making a larger batch of cookies.

10. Can I decorate these cookies?

You can decorate these cookies with sprinkles, colored sugar, or icing for an extra festive touch, especially for holidays or celebrations.

Conclusion

Whipped Shortbread Cookies are a timeless treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their delicate texture, buttery flavor, and festive maraschino cherry topping, they are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these cookies are a simple yet impressive way to spread joy during the holiday season or any time of the year.

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