Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect combination of sweetness and indulgence. With each bite, you’ll experience the delightful mix of rich chocolate and the burst of fruity flavor from the cherries. These cookies are not just any ordinary dessert; they offer an alluring aroma that fills your kitchen and a texture that is soft, chewy, and utterly satisfying. If you’re searching for a delightful recipe that combines vibrant flavors and a comforting texture in a step-by-step guide, you’re in for a treat.

Nothing says family fun like baking cookies together. This recipe is worth making because it transforms simple ingredients into a deliciously delightful experience, often evoking cherished memories of baking with loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe is designed to be easy to follow, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to whip up something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies for many compelling reasons. The prep time is minimal, taking only about 15 minutes to prepare, and the baking is as rewarding as it is quick and efficient, making it a fantastic choice for busy families. With just a handful of readily available ingredients, you can create something that feels utterly gourmet without breaking the bank.

Plus, this recipe is family-friendly, meaning that it’s a perfect way to get everyone involved in the kitchen. Whether it’s rolling dough or adding chocolate chips, kids love to help, making it a wonderful way to create lasting memories. These cookies also delight the palate, with creamy chocolate chips complementing the tangy-sweet flavor of maraschino cherries.

Ingredients for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, light and fluffy for perfect cookie structure
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, ensuring cookies rise beautifully
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, enhancing the sweetness of the dough
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to create a rich, creamy base
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar, for a touch of classic sweetness
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, bringing a rich, caramel flavor
• 1 large egg, binding it all together for a tender bite
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, adding warmth and depth
• 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped and drained for fruity goodness
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, providing that beloved chocolatey indulgence

Step-by-Step Directions for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the stage for perfectly baked cookies. While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that your dry ingredients are well combined and ready to elevate the dough.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air, leading to light, tender cookies.

4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. Allowing the flavors to meld adds depth and richness to your cookies.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle.

6. Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

7. Scoop the Dough: Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers remain soft and chewy.

9. Cool Down: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period allows them to set perfectly.

Tips & Tricks for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Chill the Dough: For a more robust flavor, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to deepen and can prevent excessive spreading.
• Experiment with Chocolate: Feel free to substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for a unique twist.
• Perfectly Soft Cookies: Underbaking slightly can yield a softer cookie. Remember, they will continue to firm up a bit as they cool on the baking sheet.
• Add a Dash of Nutmeg: For extra warmth, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dry ingredients.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways. Serve them warm with a glass of cold milk for a classic experience or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. If you want to elevate the presentation, arrange your cookies on a tiered dessert stand for a fancy touch during gatherings or family functions.

For coffee enthusiasts, these cookies pair beautifully with a smooth cup of coffee or a delightful hot chocolate during chilly evenings. Drizzle melted chocolate on top for an even sweeter presentation, enhancing their visual appeal.

Nutritional Information

Each Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookie is a delightful indulgence, approximately containing 150 calories, with 7g of fat, 22g of carbs, and 1g of protein. While cookies are a special treat, moderation is key. This recipe can be enjoyed as an occasional indulgence within a balanced diet and is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Storing Tips & Variations for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

To preserve their freshness, store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the dough. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet as directed, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

For healthier alternatives, consider swapping some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or using coconut oil instead of butter for a different taste profile. Experimenting with dried fruits or nuts can add exciting variations as well!

Conclusion for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

There’s no time like the present to indulge in the delightful flavors of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies! This recipe promises not just a batch of cookies but a fun and fulfilling baking experience, perfect for both the kitchen novice and the experienced baker alike. Don’t wait any longer—try these irresistible cookies today and bring a sweet note to your next gathering or cozy night in!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

   • Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but they should be pitted, chopped, and well-drained to prevent excess moisture.

2. Do I need to chill the dough?

   • Chilling the dough is optional but recommended for enhanced flavor and less spreading during baking.

3. How can I make these cookies softer?

   • To achieve a softer cookie, slightly underbake them and ensure they cool on the baking sheet for a bit before transferring.

4. Can I freeze the baked cookies?

   • Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy!

5. What can I do with leftover maraschino cherries?

   • Leftover cherries can be used in various recipes such as milkshakes, toppings for desserts, or added to cocktails (non-alcoholic options).

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies combine rich chocolate and sweet maraschino cherries for a delightful treat that is soft, chewy, and full of flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cookie Base

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Light and fluffy for perfect cookie structure
• 0.5 teaspoon baking soda Ensures cookies rise beautifully
• 0.25 teaspoon salt Enhances the sweetness of the dough
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter softened to create a rich, creamy base
• 0.25 cups granulated sugar For a touch of classic sweetness
• 0.5 cups packed brown sugar Brings a rich, caramel flavor
• 1 large egg Binds it all together for a tender bite
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds warmth and depth
• 0.5 cups maraschino cherries Chopped and drained for fruity goodness
• 1 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips Providing that beloved chocolatey indulgence

Method

 

Baking Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Mixing Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips.

Baking Cookies

1. Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden brown but centers remain soft.
3. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

Chill the dough for 30 minutes for deeper flavor. Substitute chocolate types to tailor taste.