There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen, transporting me back to joyful moments spent with loved ones. These Chewy Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, bringing together the irresistible sweetness of chocolate and the tart burst of cherries. Perfect for both kids and adults, this recipe is not only easy to make but also offers a vibrant pop of color that makes every batch a crowd-pleaser. With their chewy texture and the joy they bring, these cookies are destined to become a staple in your baking rotation. Curious to discover how simple ingredients can create such deliciousness? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of tart maraschino cherries and rich chocolate creates a flavor explosion that’s simply unforgettable.
Vibrant color: With pink gel food coloring, these cookies not only taste amazing but also look visually stunning!
Easy to make: This straightforward recipe calls for basic ingredients and minimal steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s at a birthday party or a cozy family gathering, these cookies delight both kids and adults, making them a guaranteed hit!
Adaptable to taste: Feel free to explore variations—like using Soft Pumpkin Cookies for a seasonal twist or adding nuts for crunch!
Indulge in these chewy delights and make your next baking session special!
Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookie Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• All-purpose flour – Essential for structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed, ensuring it contains xanthan gum.
• Cornstarch – Adds tenderness for a soft cookie.
• Baking soda – Helps the cookies rise for a fluffy texture.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Provides rich pockets of chocolate; can substitute with dark or white chocolate chips.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness; use at room temperature for optimal texture.
• Light brown sugar – Introduces moisture and a deeper flavor.
• Granulated sugar – Contributes sweetness and helps cookies develop a nice golden color.
• Large eggs – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; use room temperature for the best results.
• Vanilla extract – Classic enhancer for warmth and flavor.
• Almond extract – Adds a floral note; optional for those with nut allergies.
• Pink gel food coloring – Offers a cheerful coloring to the cookies.
• Maraschino cherries – Provides bursts of flavor and visual appeal; these are the stars of this irresistible Maraschino cherry cookie recipe!
Now, let’s get those baking vibes rolling!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350º F (175º C). Meanwhile, line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. This step is crucial as it ensures your Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies bake evenly, giving you that perfect chewy texture.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This blend will create a light and fluffy cookie base. Ensure everything is well mixed to avoid uneven distribution of the baking soda, which can affect how your cookies rise. Set this mixture aside as you tackle the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat for about 2 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and pale in color. This step is vital for incorporating air into the dough, leading to that delicious chewy texture in your cookies.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add in the large eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the creamed mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is well blended and smooth. This allows the wet ingredients to emulsify with the fats and sugars, ensuring a cohesive dough for your Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies.
Step 5: Incorporate Food Coloring
Once the wet mix is smooth, add a few drops of pink gel food coloring and blend until you’ve reached your desired hue. This step not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the festive essence of your cookies. Don’t over blend; just blend until the color is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a thick dough forms. This prevents flour from flying everywhere and helps maintain the dough’s moisture. Make sure everything is incorporated well, but be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
Step 7: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Take your time with this step to ensure an even distribution of cherries and chocolate, which will create delightful bursts of flavor in your Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies.
Step 8: Shape the Cookies
Scoop the dough into golf ball-sized portions and place them on the prepared cookie sheet, leaving space between each ball. Press a few extra chocolate chips and pieces of cherry on top for presentation. This will not only look beautiful but will also give an extra pop of flavor with every bite.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-13 minutes until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end, as you want to catch them just as they start to set for that perfect chewy texture.
Step 10: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes. This step is important to let them firm up before transferring to a wire rack. The cooling time is essential for that gooey center that makes these Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies so delightful!
Expert Tips for Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are at room temperature for optimal blending and texture.
• Mixing Caution: Avoid overmixing the dough; this can toughen your cookies. Mix just until combined for that perfect chewy bite.
• Space It Out: When placing cookie dough on the baking sheet, leave enough space between each ball. This allows the cookies to spread without merging into one another.
• Check for Doneness: Bake until the edges are golden brown but still soft in the center; they will firm up as they cool. This ensures that delightful gooeyness inside your Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a dash of orange or lemon zest for a refreshing twist. Variations can elevate your cookie game and keep the recipe exciting.
Make Ahead Options
These Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. For the best results, remember to cool the cookies on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to keep their chewy texture intact. Enjoy the deliciousness with minimal effort when you prep ahead!
Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookie Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and customize these cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies accessible for everyone. Your gluten-free friends will be delighted!
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Dairy-Free: Swap out unsalted butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative. This simple change allows everyone to enjoy the chewy goodness without dairy!
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Nutty Flavor: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a pleasant crunch and a wonderful depth of flavor. The toasted taste of nuts marries beautifully with the cherries and chocolate.
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Different Cherries: Try replacing maraschino cherries with dried cranberries for a tart twist. This variation adds an unexpected zing and is perfect for those who love a little tartness in their treats.
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Flavor Boost: Incorporate a hint of orange or lemon zest for a refreshing citrus touch. The bright flavors will elevate your cookies, making them feel extra special.
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Decadent: Drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving for an indulgent treat that takes these cookies to a whole new level. It’s a delightful way to impress your loved ones!
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Double Chocolate: Substitute half of the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for richer, chocolaty goodness. This variation is sure to please any chocolate lover!
As you savor these special creations, you might also find joy in baking other favorites like Soft Pumpkin Cookies or Grilled Cheese Burrito, giving you even more delectable options to share with family and friends!
Storage Tips for Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week, allowing them to stay moist and flavorful.
Freezer: You can freeze these Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply let the cookies thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for a delightful treat that tastes freshly baked!
What to Serve with Chewy Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s nothing quite like complementing your baked treats with a selection of delights that elevate the experience to even greater heights.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the tartness of the cherries, creating a heavenly dessert combination. It adds a delightful contrast of temperatures, making every bite truly indulgent.
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Rich Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with a mug of rich hot cocoa, which enhances the chocolate flavors in the cookies while providing a warm, comforting drink. The velvety richness makes each cookie dunk into a blissful experience.
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Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries and blueberries can provide a refreshing burst of freshness alongside the rich cookies. Their natural sweetness complements the dish, adding a beautiful pop of color to your dessert table.
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Chilled Milk: The classic pairing of cookies and milk is a timeless delight. The cool, creamy texture of the milk is perfect for softening the chewy cookies, offering a nostalgic touch that everyone loves.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet coconut treats pair wonderfully with the chewy chocolate chip cookies. Their texture contrasts nicely while enhancing the overall sweetness of your dessert spread.
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Light Citrus Salad: A light salad with citrus fruits and a drizzle of honey can be a refreshing counterpoint to the cookies. The bright flavors cleanse the palate and balance the richness of the chocolate and cherries.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy, zesty drink like sparkling lemonade refreshes the palate and adds a festive touch to your dessert selection. The bright citrus notes harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of your cookies.
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Chocolate Cake Pops: For the ultimate chocolate lover, serve these alongside your cookies for double the sweet joy. Their fudgy texture mirrors the richness of the cookies while offering a fun, bite-sized treat.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso enhances the flavors found in your cookies and offers a delightful contrast of warmth to the sweet, chewy goodness. The bitterness cuts through the sweetness, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.
Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and appearance, select maraschino cherries that are vibrant and bright, avoiding any with dark spots or signs of fading. This will ensure that your cookies not only taste great but also look beautiful with those delightful pops of color.
How should I store my cookies after baking?
To maintain the chewy texture, keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just ensure they’re sealed well to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze the cookie dough ahead of time?
Very much so! To freeze your cookie dough, scoop it into golf ball-sized portions and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 2 hours until solid, then transfer the individual dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and place the frozen dough on a baking sheet, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if the cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is sticky, no worries! Chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes will make it much easier to scoop and shape. This step is especially useful in warm weather when the butter may have softened too much.
Are these cookies safe for individuals with nut allergies?
Yes, they can be! You can easily make these Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies nut-free by omitting the almond extract, which is optional. Always double-check all your ingredients for potential cross-contamination, especially if you’re baking for someone with severe allergies.
How long do these cookies typically last once baked?
When stored properly, your cookies will stay delicious for about 3 days at room temperature, or up to a week in the fridge. If you freeze them, they can last up to 3 months, so you can indulge anytime without the hassle of baking fresh!
Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies That Wow Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350º F (175º C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar for about 2 minutes until fluffy.
- Add in the large eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and mix until well blended.
- Add a few drops of pink gel food coloring and mix until the desired hue is achieved.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a thick dough forms.
- Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Scoop the dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, leaving space between each ball and press extra chips on top.
- Bake for 10-13 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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