CHERRY COCOA SHORTBREAD SQUARES

Cherry Cocoa Shortbread Squares image

Whenever there is a potluck at work or a family gathering, I'm asked to bring these delectable bars. I found the recipe years ago and have made it countless times since. -Bettie Martin, Oneida, Wisconsin

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Desserts

Time 35m

Yield 3 dozen.

Number Of Ingredients 11

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Ingredients

1/2 cup butter, softened plus 2 tablespoons butter, divided
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons baking cocoa
2 cups confectioners' sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
18 maraschino cherries, halved
GLAZE:
1 ounce unsweetened chocolate
1-1/2 teaspoons butter

Steps:

In a large bowl, cream 1/2 cup butter and sugar. Beat in flour and cocoa (mixture will be crumbly). Spread into a greased 9-in. square baking pan. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes or until surface is set. Cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes. , Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine confectioners' sugar and remaining butter; beat in milk and vanilla until smooth. Spread over crust. Pat cherries dry with a paper towel; arrange over frosting and press down gently. , In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and butter; stir until smooth. Drizzle over cherries. Refrigerate until glaze has hardened. Cut into squares.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 84 calories, Fat 4g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 9mg cholesterol, Sodium 34mg sodium, Carbohydrate 13g carbohydrate (9g sugars, Fiber 0 fiber), Protein 1g protein.