Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Sweet Delight!

Introduction to Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to baking. That’s why I adore these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies! They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful way to bring a smile to my family’s faces. The sweet, tangy cherries paired with rich chocolate chips create a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a quick solution for a hectic day or a special dessert to impress your loved ones, these cookies are the answer. Trust me, they’ll become a favorite in no time!

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Sweet Delight!

Print Recipe

Delicious cookies combining the sweetness of maraschino cherries with rich chocolate chips.

• Author: Chef Samantha
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
9. Allow to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Notes

• For a chewier cookie, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Feel free to substitute dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a game-changer for busy lives. They come together in just 32 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a sweet treat after dinner. The combination of chewy cherries and melty chocolate chips creates a taste that’s simply irresistible. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring smiles all around. Who doesn’t love a cookie that’s both quick and delicious?

Ingredients for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature, it adds richness and helps create a tender cookie.
• Granulated sugar: This sweetener gives the cookies a lovely sweetness and helps with browning.
• Brown sugar: Packed for extra moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, it balances the sweetness.
• Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cookie’s structure.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• All-purpose flour: The base of the cookies, providing structure and chewiness.
• Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Chocolate chips: Choose semi-sweet or dark for a rich, melty experience in every bite.
• Maraschino cherries: Chopped for bursts of sweet-tart flavor that make these cookies special.

For those looking to mix things up, consider substituting dark chocolate chips for a deeper flavor or using almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. If the oven isn’t hot enough, your cookies might spread too much or not rise properly. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is the secret to cookie perfection!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. This process is vital for creating a light and fluffy texture. The air you incorporate while creaming helps the cookies rise beautifully. Aim for a pale, creamy mixture that looks inviting!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Eggs are the glue that holds everything together, while vanilla adds a warm, comforting flavor. It’s like a hug for your taste buds!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients separately helps ensure that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed. This step is key to avoiding any salty bites or uneven rising in your cookies.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to be soft and chewy. Just mix until you no longer see flour, and you’re good to go!

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Now, it’s time to fold in the chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries. Use a spatula to gently combine them into the dough. Folding is important because it helps distribute the chocolate and cherries evenly without deflating the dough. You want every bite to be a delightful surprise!

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Using a tablespoon, drop rounded scoops of dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking. For uniform cookies, you can use a cookie scoop. It’s a game-changer for consistency!

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary. A good trick is to take them out when they look slightly underbaked in the center. They’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet!

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This cooling time is essential for achieving the perfect texture. If you move them too soon, they might fall apart. Patience is key, but the delicious aroma will make it worth the wait!

Tips for Success

• Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes for chewier cookies.
• Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes and even baking.
• Experiment with different chocolate types for varied flavors.
• Don’t skip the cooling time; it enhances the cookie texture.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry.
• Electric mixer: A hand mixer works well, but a whisk can do the job too.
• Baking sheets: Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Cookie scoop: A tablespoon works if you don’t have one.
• Wire racks: Essential for cooling, but a plate can work in a pinch.

Variations

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the cherries and chocolate.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free treat.
• Cherry Almond Twist: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
• Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer, more intense chocolate experience.
• Oatmeal Addition: Mix in a cup of rolled oats for a heartier cookie that adds fiber and chewiness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Present them on a colorful platter for a festive touch at gatherings.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

FAQs about Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

While fresh cherries can be used, they won’t provide the same sweetness and tangy flavor as maraschino cherries. If you choose fresh, consider adding a bit of extra sugar to balance the flavors.

How do I store leftover cookies?

To keep your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

If you need an egg substitute, try using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This will help bind the ingredients while keeping the cookies moist.

Why are my cookies flat?

Flat cookies can result from using melted butter or not enough flour. Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and measure your flour accurately. A little extra flour can help achieve that perfect cookie shape!

Final Thoughts

Baking these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies is more than just a recipe; it’s a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and delightful aromas. Each bite is a sweet reminder of the simple pleasures in life, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying during a quiet moment. I love how they bring smiles to my loved ones, making even the busiest days feel special. So, whether you’re whipping them up for a gathering or just because, these cookies are sure to create sweet memories that linger long after the last crumb is gone!