Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on classic chocolate chip cookies, featuring sweet, juicy maraschino cherries and rich chocolate chips in a soft, buttery cookie base. With their vibrant color and irresistible flavor, these cookies are perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply when you’re craving something sweet and unique.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination – The combination of maraschino cherries and chocolate chips creates a rich and fruity sweetness.
• Soft and Chewy Texture – These cookies have a perfectly soft and chewy texture with a slight crisp on the edges.
• Festive Appearance – The bright red cherries add a beautiful pop of color, making these cookies ideal for holidays and celebrations.
• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and easy steps, these cookies come together quickly.
• Great for Gifting – Their eye-catching look and delicious taste make them a great homemade gift.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Maraschino cherries
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the cherries by draining and chopping them into small pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
3. Cream the butter and sugars in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
4. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Whisk the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, and salt) in a separate bowl, then gradually mix into the wet ingredients.
6. Fold in the chopped cherries and chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• White Chocolate Cherry Cookies – Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a creamier, sweeter contrast.
• Almond Flavor Twist – Add ½ teaspoon of almond extract for an enhanced cherry-almond flavor.
• Dark Chocolate Version – Use dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
• Gluten-Free Option – Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Nutty Addition – Mix in chopped almonds or pecans for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their softness.

FAQs

How do I prevent the cookies from becoming too soft?

Pat the cherries dry before adding them to the dough to prevent excess moisture from making the cookies too soft.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes, but fresh cherries contain more moisture, so ensure they are well-drained and patted dry before use.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

If your cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. Also, ensure your butter isn’t too soft.

Can I use almond extract instead of vanilla?

Yes, almond extract pairs well with cherries and enhances the flavor beautifully.

How do I make these cookies chewier?

For a chewier texture, add an extra egg yolk and slightly reduce the flour.

Can I use chocolate chunks instead of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chocolate chunks will create larger pockets of melted chocolate in the cookies.

Do I need to refrigerate the dough before baking?

It’s not required, but chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help control spreading and enhance flavor.

Can I add coconut to the dough?

Yes! Adding shredded coconut gives the cookies a tropical twist.

How do I keep cookies fresh for longer?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to help retain moisture.

Conclusion

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a perfect combination of fruity sweetness and chocolatey goodness. Their vibrant color and rich flavors make them a fantastic treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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