In a small bowl, plump the chopped dried cherries by soaking them with cherry juice or water and red food coloring (food coloring is optional) for about 15 minutes. Drain well.
1 cup chopped dried cherries, 2 tablespoons cherry juice or water, Red food coloring
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened, ¾ cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 cup unsalted butter, softened, ¾ cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup packed light brown sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Gently fold in the plumped, drained cherries into the dough. Distribute evenly and thoroughly.
1 cup chopped dried cherries, 2 tablespoons cherry juice or water, Red food coloring
Place the dough on a large sheet of plastic wrap. Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
Refrigerate the dough log for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Using a sharp knife, slice the dough into ¼-inch thick rounds.
Place the cookie slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious homemade Cherry Icebox Cookies!
