Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Sweet, Chewy Delight
Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a festive and flavorful treat that combines the tartness of cherries with the richness of chocolate. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, these cookies are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
For more cookie inspirations, explore Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Drizzle or indulge in Decadent Caramel Chocolate Cupcakes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The sweetness of maraschino cherries pairs beautifully with semi-sweet chocolate.
- Festive Appearance: Vibrant pink dough and chocolate chips make these cookies stand out.
- Simple Preparation: Easy to make with minimal ingredients and steps.
For a fruity twist, try the Raspberry Shortbread with White Chocolate Drizzle.
Ingredients for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened.
- ¾ cup light brown sugar.
- 1 large egg.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract, ⅛ tsp almond extract.
Dry Ingredients:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour.
- ½ tsp baking soda, ¼ tsp salt.
Add-Ins:
- ¾ cup maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped.
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in egg, vanilla, almond extract, and a touch of pink gel food coloring for vibrancy.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until just combined.
2. Fold in the Cherries and Chocolate
- Pat cherries dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Gently fold in chopped cherries and chocolate chips.
3. Shape and Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Scoop dough into 1½-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Creative Variations
- Dark Chocolate Cherry: Use dark chocolate chips for an intense flavor.
- Nutty Option: Add chopped pecans or almonds for texture.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
Explore additional unique recipes like Cool Whip Cookies for simple yet delicious desserts.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Drain Cherries Properly: Excess liquid can make the dough too sticky.
- Even Baking: Space cookies evenly on the sheet to prevent spreading.
- Enhance the Presentation: Press a few chocolate chips on top of each cookie before baking.
FAQs About Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Yes, pit and chop fresh cherries, but ensure they’re thoroughly dried to prevent sogginess.
2. How should I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely. Scoop dough balls onto a tray, freeze until solid, then store in a freezer-safe bag.
4. Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to reduce spreading.
Internal Linking Opportunities
- Try Cinnamon Roll Cookies with Cream Cheese Drizzle for another unique cookie idea.
- Satisfy your chocolate cravings with Decadent Caramel Chocolate Cupcakes.
- Explore fruity cookie variations with Raspberry Shortbread with White Chocolate Drizzle.
Conclusion
Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect blend of tart and sweet, offering a pop of color and flavor in every bite. With their vibrant appearance and chewy texture, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Bake a batch today and enjoy a delightful twist on classic chocolate chip cookies!
