Print

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are soft, chewy treats bursting with the sweet, tangy flavor of maraschino cherries and rich, melty chocolate chips. This easy-to-make recipe delivers perfectly balanced sweetness and a tender crumb, making these cookies a nostalgic yet fresh twist on a classic favorite. Ideal for cozy nights, sharing with friends, or festive occasions, they offer a visually stunning pop of bright red cherries and customizable options for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add-ins

  • 1 cup chopped Maraschino cherries, well drained
  • 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Drain and chop the Maraschino cherries into small pieces to ensure even distribution in the dough.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to combine evenly and help the cookies rise properly.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugars: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes, creating a tender cookie texture.
  4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined, which binds the dough and adds richness.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined to avoid overworking the dough and keeping cookies tender.
  6. Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chopped Maraschino cherries and chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  7. Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough about 2 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges turn golden but centers remain soft.
  8. Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve fresh or store for later.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter and eggs for better mixing and smoother dough.
  • Drain and pat Maraschino cherries dry thoroughly to prevent soggy dough.
  • Mix dough only until just combined to keep cookies soft and tender.
  • Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
  • Remove cookies from the oven just before edges brown to maintain a soft, chewy center.

Nutrition

Keywords: Maraschino cherries, chocolate chip cookies, soft cookies, cherry chocolate cookies, easy cookie recipe, chewy cookies, homemade cookies, holiday cookies