Cherry Almond Shortbread Wedges

Tender, buttery shortbread wedges studded with sweet cherries and fragrant almonds. No chilling required—perfect for a quick, elegant treat.

This recipe quickly became my go-to treat when I need something elegant yet simple to bake.

Ingredients

• Dry Ingredients: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Wet Ingredients: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter softened, 1 teaspoon almond extract, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Add-ins & Toppings: 1/2 cup (75 g) dried cherries chopped, 1/3 cup (35 g) sliced almonds, 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional for sprinkling)

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl whisk together flour powdered sugar and salt.

Cream Wet Ingredients:

In a large bowl cream the softened butter with almond and vanilla extracts until smooth and fluffy about 2 minutes.

Combine Dry and Wet:

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix on low speed or by hand until just combined and a soft dough forms.

Fold In Add-ins:

Fold in the chopped dried cherries and 2 tablespoons of sliced almonds.

Press Dough:

Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula or your fingers.

Score Wedges:

Score the dough into 8 wedges do not cut through completely. Sprinkle with remaining sliced almonds and coarse sugar if desired.

Bake:

Bake for 22-25 minutes until the edges are just golden and the center is set.

Cool and Slice:

Remove from oven. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes then re-score and slice into wedges. Let cool completely before serving.

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My family loves gathering around the table to share these wedges over tea and stories.

Notes

Substitute dried cranberries or apricots for cherries for variety. For extra almond flavor add 2 tablespoons of almond flour to the dough. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special touch.

Required Tools

Mixing bowls, Electric mixer or sturdy spoon, 9-inch round cake pan, Spatula, Knife

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten), dairy (butter), and tree nuts (almonds). Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.

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Enjoy these wedges fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can dried cranberries replace cherries?

Yes, dried cranberries can be substituted for cherries to provide a slightly tart flavor that complements the almonds well.

→ Is chilling the dough necessary before baking?

No chilling is required; the dough can be baked immediately after mixing and pressing into the pan.

→ How do you achieve a crisp edge and tender center?

Baking at 350°F until edges turn golden and the center sets ensures a crisp exterior with a soft, tender crumb inside.

→ What can enhance the almond flavor?

Adding two tablespoons of almond flour to the dough intensifies the almond aroma and taste.

→ Are there any suggested toppings?

Sprinkling coarse sugar and sliced almonds on top before baking adds extra texture and sweetness.

→ How should these wedges be served?

They are delicious served cool, optionally accompanied by whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added richness.