Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe

Maraschino Cherry Cookies are soft, buttery cookies packed with the sweet, fruity flavor of maraschino cherries. These pretty pink cookies have a tender texture, subtle almond undertones, and can be enhanced with white chocolate chips for extra indulgence. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply as a delightful treat, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick prep.
  • Soft and chewy – Perfectly tender with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Beautiful pink color – Naturally festive and eye-catching.
  • Great for holidays – Ideal for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or parties.
  • Customizable – Add chocolate, nuts, or even coconut for variety.
Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe 10 Maraschino Cherry Cookies are soft, buttery cookies packed with the sweet, fruity flavor of maraschino cherries. These pretty pink cookies have a tender texture, subtle almond undertones, and can be enhanced with white chocolate chips for extra indulgence. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply as a delightful treat, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Ingredients

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

  • Butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Egg
  • Almond extract
  • Maraschino cherries (chopped)
  • Maraschino cherry juice
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • White chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix wet ingredients: Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and almond extract.
  3. Prepare the cherries: Chop the maraschino cherries and pat them dry with paper towels.
  4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Make the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir in chopped cherries and cherry juice. Fold in white chocolate chips if using.
  6. Shape the cookies: Scoop dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
  8. Cool and serve: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

  • Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over cooled cookies.
  • Coconut twist: Add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical flavor.
  • Nutty crunch: Mix in chopped almonds or pecans for added texture.
  • Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
  • Extra cherry flavor: Add more cherry juice for a deeper pink color and stronger cherry taste.

Storage/Reheating

  • Room temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Refrigeration: Can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Enjoy at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for 10 seconds.
Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe
Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe 11 Maraschino Cherry Cookies are soft, buttery cookies packed with the sweet, fruity flavor of maraschino cherries. These pretty pink cookies have a tender texture, subtle almond undertones, and can be enhanced with white chocolate chips for extra indulgence. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply as a delightful treat, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

No, fresh cherries have a different moisture content and will affect the texture.

Do I have to add almond extract?

No, but it enhances the cherry flavor beautifully. Vanilla extract is a good substitute.

How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure to pat the chopped cherries dry and chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! Store the dough in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.

What type of white chocolate works best?

White chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate bars both work well.

Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Yes, use an egg substitute like applesauce or a flax egg.

Why are my cookies too dry?

Overbaking or adding too much flour can cause dryness. Bake just until the edges are set.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in batches.

How do I make these cookies extra pink?

Add a drop of pink or red food coloring to enhance the color.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is best for flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.

Conclusion

Maraschino Cherry Cookies are a fun and festive treat with a deliciously soft texture and rich cherry flavor. Whether for a special occasion or a simple indulgence, these cookies are sure to impress. Try different variations to make them your own, and enjoy the perfect blend of sweetness in every bite!

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Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe

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  • Author: Kim Cooks Easy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert, Cookies
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Maraschino Cherry Cookies are soft, buttery, and packed with sweet cherry flavor. With bits of chopped maraschino cherries and a hint of almond extract, these cookies are perfect for holidays, Valentine’s Day, or whenever you crave a fruity treat. You can even add white chocolate chips for an extra indulgent twist!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp almond extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Prepare the Dough:
  • In a large bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Mix in vanilla and almond extract.
  • Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
  • Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and white chocolate chips (if using).
  • Shape the Cookies:
  • Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls.
  • Place them about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
  • Flatten slightly with your fingers or the bottom of a glass.
  • Bake:
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Serve & Enjoy:
  • Enjoy as-is, or drizzle with melted white chocolate for extra sweetness!

Notes

  • Draining Cherries: Make sure to drain and pat dry the maraschino cherries before chopping to prevent excess moisture.
  • Almond Extract Boost: The almond extract enhances the cherry flavor—don’t skip it!
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months; bake from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes.
  • Recipe Details

Nutrition

  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 45mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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