Name: Delicious Maraschino Cherry Cookies You Can’t Resist
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free 1:1 baking blend if needed); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter (must be at room temperature); 3/4 cup light brown sugar (can use dark brown sugar for more flavor); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (reduce for less sweetness); 2 large eggs (can substitute with 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg for vegan); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (omit if nut allergies); 1 teaspoon pink gel food coloring (optional); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (can switch to dark chocolate); 1/2 cup maraschino cherries (finely chopped and drained)

The moment I bit into one of these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies, I was instantly transported to a sun-drenched kitchen filled with laughter and sweet aromas. These delightful cookies combine the rich, comforting taste of chocolate with the vibrant zing of juicy maraschino cherries, creating a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a quick baking time of just 40 minutes, they’re not only a convenient indulgence but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, with options for gluten-free and vegan variations, everyone can join in on the fun! So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are a must-try. Curious about what makes them so irresistible? Let’s dive into the recipe!

What makes these cookies so special?

Unmatched flavor: The blissful blend of rich chocolate and sweet maraschino cherries creates a symphony of taste that will leave you craving more. Quick baking: In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a batch that’s sure to be the star of any gathering. Versatile options: Whether you’re gluten-free, vegan, or simply craving something delightful, these cookies can be adapted for everyone. Perfect for sharing: They’re a fantastic treat that can elevate any dessert table; try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a cup of chocolate milk for that ultimate indulgence. If you’re in the mood for more sweet treats, check out our delicious Soft Pumpkin Cookies or the delightful Sea Salt Caramel Apple Cookies.

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bake something special!

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour – Foundation for chewy texture; substitute with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend for Maraschino Cherry Cookies.
Cornstarch – Softens cookies for a tender bite; no substitution needed.
Baking soda – Leavening agent for rise; essential for fluffiness.
Salt – Balances sweetness; keep as indicated.
Unsalted butter – Creates richness; must be at room temperature for mixing.
Light brown sugar – Adds caramel notes for depth; can use dark brown sugar for a more robust flavor.
Granulated sugar – Provides additional sweetness; reduce for less sweetness if desired.
Large eggs – Binds ingredients for a chewy structure; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water for each egg).
Vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor; essential for warmth.
Almond extract – Adds nutty undertones; can be omitted for nut allergies.
Pink gel food coloring – For visual appeal; optional for aesthetic.

For the Mix-ins

Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Primary chocolate flavor; switch to dark chocolate for a richer taste.
Maraschino cherries – Finely chopped for bursts of sweet goodness; ensure they’re drained well to avoid excess moisture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the Maraschino Cherry Cookies from sticking. This step is essential for achieving that perfect cookie texture, so ensure your oven is fully heated before baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This dry mixture is the foundation of your Maraschino Cherry Cookies, providing the perfect chewy texture. Once combined, set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes. The mixture should be light and fluffy, creating a rich base for your cookie dough. This step helps incorporate air into the ingredients, which is key for achieving the ideal cookie.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Extracts
Next, mix in the large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract. This flavorful combination enhances the overall taste of your Maraschino Cherry Cookies, making them irresistible and delightful!

Step 5: Incorporate Food Coloring
If desired, add a few drops of pink gel food coloring to the wet mixture and blend until well combined. This step is optional but adds a fun and vibrant appearance to your Maraschino Cherry Cookies. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your aesthetic preference.

Step 6: Form the Cookie Dough
Slowly add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until a thick and cohesive dough forms, ensuring that no dry patches remain. This dough is the star of your Maraschino Cherry Cookies and sets the stage for the delicious mix-ins to come.

Step 7: Fold in Mix-ins
Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Use a spatula to ensure even distribution throughout the dough, so every bite of your cookie is packed with sweet cherry and rich chocolate goodness.

Step 8: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the dough into balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place these dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading while baking. This ensures your Maraschino Cherry Cookies cook evenly and maintain their lovely shape.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-13 minutes or until the edges are set, but the centers remain soft. Keep an eye on them as you don’t want to overbake; you want that perfect, chewy texture that makes these cookies so special.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the Maraschino Cherry Cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time allows the cookies to firm up while maintaining their warm, gooey centers—finding the perfect balance for your delightful treat!

Storage Tips for Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and chewy.

Fridge: You can refrigerate cookies for up to a week if you want them to last longer, but make sure they’re in a well-sealed container to avoid drying out.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy a cookie, reheat it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste!

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine in the kitchen! These simple twists can elevate your Maraschino Cherry Cookies to new flavor heights.

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend for a delicious alternative.
Vegan: Use coconut oil or vegan butter along with flax eggs to make these delightful cookies suitable for everyone.
Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for a bright and refreshing flavor boost.
Nutty Addition: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Fruity Variety: Swap maraschino cherries for dried cherries or cranberries for a slightly different taste while keeping the texture intact.
Spicy Kick: A pinch of cayenne or cinnamon will lend a warm, unexpected twist that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Choco-Chip Delight: For an extra chocolatey treat, combine chocolate chips with your favorite flavored chips, like white chocolate or peanut butter chips.

Don’t forget to check out our delicious Egg Sugar Cookies for another sweet addition to your baking repertoire, or try our enchanting Soft Pumpkin Cookies for a seasonal delight!

Expert Tips for Perfect Maraschino Cherry Cookies

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This enhances flavor and helps manage stickiness for shaping.

• Monitor Baking Time: Avoid overbaking by checking cookies at the 10-minute mark. A soft center ensures the chewy texture you’re aiming for in your Maraschino Cherry Cookies.

• Add Extra Toppings: For appealing visuals and added flavor, press extra chocolate chips and cherries onto the dough balls before baking.

• Ingredient Temperature: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for easy mixing, creating a fluffy cookie base that’s rich and delicious.

• Even Mix-ins: Gently fold in chopped cherries and chocolate chips to ensure a delightful balance of flavors in each cookie bite.

What to Serve with Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delightful cookies are the perfect centerpiece for a cozy gathering, inviting you to explore the delicious pairings that can elevate your dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream beautifully complements the chewy texture and fruity notes, creating a classic dessert pairing. The coolness of the ice cream combined with the warm, chewy cookie creates a harmonious balance that’s simply irresistible.
Chocolate Milk: Rich chocolate milk enhances the decadent flavors of the cookies, making each bite feel indulgent. It’s the ultimate nostalgic drink that brings back memories of childhood treats, perfect for dipping!
Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a vibrant acidity to the table. The refreshing taste of berries contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, offering a delightful explosion of flavors.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or rich espresso serves as an excellent counterpoint to the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing their chocolate notes. The bitterness from the coffee elevates the entire experience, perfect for an afternoon treat.
Milkshake: For a fun twist, serve these cookies alongside a thick, creamy milkshake. Whether it’s chocolate, vanilla, or cherry-infused, the combination is sure to delight your guests and make for a fun dessert experience.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side can add a touch of elegance to your cookie serving. Its light and airy texture provides a lovely contrast to the rich cookie, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Hot Cocoa: Especially a favorite in colder months, a mug of frothy hot cocoa can enhance your cookie experience. The warmth and richness of cocoa echo the flavors of chocolate in the cookies, wrapping you in a cozy embrace.

Indulge in these pairings and transform your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies into a sumptuous dessert spread that everyone will remember!

Make Ahead Options

These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge without the stress of last-minute baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop the dough into balls and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their delightful texture, make sure the dough is well-wrapped to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the chilled dough on a lined baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time. If you want even greater convenience, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking for delicious, fresh Maraschino Cherry Cookies with minimal effort!

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my maraschino cherries are ripe for baking?
Choosing the right maraschino cherries is essential! Look for bright red cherries without dark spots or excessive syrup. They should be firm but juicy, contributing their sweet flavor to your cookies. Always drain them well before chopping to avoid adding extra moisture to the dough.

What is the best way to store my Maraschino Cherry Cookies?
Absolutely! Keep your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to extend their life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, ensuring that they’re well-sealed to maintain their chewiness.

Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Maraschino Cherry Cookies dough, scoop it into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking as usual.

What if my cookies come out flat?
Very! Cookies can flatten for several reasons. Here are step-by-step instructions to troubleshoot: First, ensure that your butter is at room temperature but not melted, as melted butter can lead to spreading. Second, check that your baking soda is fresh; old leavening agents won’t provide the necessary rise. Finally, be mindful not to overmix your dough, as this can develop gluten and make your cookies tough instead of chewy.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Definitely! You can easily make these Maraschino Cherry Cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend. For a vegan option, swap the unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg). Always double-check for potential allergies, especially with maraschino cherries and almond extract if you or your guests have nut allergies.