White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies

—

## **👩‍🍳 Instructions**
1️⃣ **Preheat Oven:** Set your oven to **325°F (163°C)** and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2️⃣ **Cream Butter & Sugar:** In a mixing bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix.

3️⃣ **Add Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until just combined.

4️⃣ **Fold in Cherries & White Chocolate:** Gently stir in the chopped maraschino cherries and white chocolate chips.

5️⃣ **Shape the Dough:** Roll the dough into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly with your fingers or the back of a spoon.

6️⃣ **Bake:** Bake for **12-15 minutes** or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

7️⃣ **Drizzle with White Chocolate (Optional):** Melt additional white chocolate and drizzle over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.

—

## **🍽 Tips for the Best Cookies**
✔ **Dry the Cherries:** Pat the maraschino cherries dry with a paper towel to prevent extra moisture from making the dough too soft.
✔ **Chill the Dough (if needed):** If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking.
✔ **Storage:** Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to **one week** or freeze for longer freshness.

—

### **✨ Final Thoughts**
These **White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies** are as delicious as they are beautiful! Whether you make them for the holidays, a tea party, or just a sweet treat, they are sure to impress.

💬 **Have you tried these cookies before? Let us know in the comments!** 🍒🍪

Would you like me to add any variations or tips? 😊