As I stood over the mixing bowl, I found myself pleasantly surprised by the vibrant colors and flavors of the ingredients coming together. Let me introduce you to my new obsession: Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies You’ll Crave Daily. These delightful cookies bring a joyous twist to the classic chocolate chip with the addition of sweet, juicy maraschino cherries. The best part? They’re not just delicious; they’re incredibly quick to make, taking only 40 minutes from prep to plate. Perfect for any occasion, these nut-free treats are accessible for bakers of all levels and are easily customizable for gluten-free or vegan diets. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering or reward yourself with something special, these cookies will certainly satisfy that craving. What flavors do you think would play along beautifully with cherries?
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Delightful Twists: Each bite of these cookies is a celebration, with sweet maraschino cherries adding a refreshing punch to the rich chocolate flavor.
Quick to Make: In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a batch that will impress friends and family alike!
Customizable Options: Totally nut-free and easily adaptable for gluten-free or vegan diets. It’s that versatile!
Textural Bliss: Enjoy the satisfying chewiness paired with bursts of juicy cherries and melting chocolate chips.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual gatherings to festive celebrations, these cookies fit right in. For a fun twist on traditional flavors, check out my Tiramisu Christmas Cookies or keep it classic with Chocolate Churro Cookies.
Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• All-purpose flour – Foundation for that perfect chewy texture; feel free to use a gluten-free blend for gluten-free cookies.
• Cornstarch – Helps create a softer cookie with a tender bite.
• Baking soda – Ensures cookies rise beautifully for a perfect bake.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Light brown sugar – Infuses a lovely caramel note that complements the chocolate.
• Granulated sugar – Provides a touch of sweetness that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• Large eggs – Act as the binding agent for a delightful chewy cookie.
• Vanilla extract – Offers warmth and depth of flavor to make every bite blissful.
• Almond extract – Enhances overall flavor with a nutty hint; optional if you’re avoiding nuts.
• Pink gel food coloring – Adds a cheerful pop of color, making the cookies even more inviting; optional.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – The star of the show that pairs beautifully with cherries.
• Maraschino cherries – Drained and finely chopped for juicy sweetness in every bite; choose plump, glossy cherries for the best flavor.
Note: These ingredients come together to create the Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies you’ll crave daily!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies You’ll Crave Daily
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies don’t stick during baking. This simple step prepares your workspace for an easy clean-up later.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This combination creates the perfect base for your cookies. Set the bowl aside for now, allowing the flavors and textures to mingle before the magic begins.
Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of light brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Cream these together for about 2 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This crucial step adds richness and texture to your Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, mix in 2 large eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract into the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a smooth, cohesive batter. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a touch of pink gel food coloring for a vibrant pop!
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold in the dry ingredient mixture from Step 2 to the wet batter, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft, tender dough for your cookies. The fragrant aroma will start to fill your kitchen as the ingredients come together harmoniously.
Step 6: Add the Cherries and Chocolate
Once your dough is ready, gently fold in 1 cup of finely chopped maraschino cherries and 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. This step ensures that every bite of your cookies contains those delightful bursts of cherry sweetness combined with rich chocolate. Make sure these goodies are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop the dough into golf ball-sized portions and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. For an added touch, press extra chocolate chips and cherries on top of each ball of dough to create a beautiful presentation before baking.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10-13 minutes, watching for them to be just set but still soft in the center. You want the edges to be lightly golden while the middle remains tender. The warm, inviting scent of your Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies will have everyone eagerly waiting!
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period helps them set perfectly while maintaining that lovely chewy texture. You can’t rush greatness—let them cool just a bit before indulging!
Step 10: Store or Serve
Once cooled, enjoy your delicious cookies right away or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. These Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a well-deserved treat for yourself!
Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful variations! Each suggestion invites you to explore new flavors and textures that will keep your taste buds dancing.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies friendly for gluten-sensitive friends. A simple swap can open up a world of flavor!
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Vegan: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and replace eggs with flax eggs for a plant-based version. Enjoy the same chewy bliss without losing any joy!
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Citrusy Twist: Add a teaspoon of fresh orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing flavor boost. The bright zing harmonizes beautifully with the cherries!
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Nutty Flavor: If you’re a fan of crunch, add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful textural contrast. This variant enhances not just the flavor but the whole experience.
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Minty Delight: Introduce a splash of peppermint extract for an invigorating minty twist. This seasonal update will brighten your cookie platter!
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Cherry Almond: Elevate the cherry flavor by adding an extra splash of almond extract. It creates a beautifully fragrant and nutty cookie experience that cherry lovers will adore.
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder. The heat subtly pairs with the sweetness of the cherries, creating a unique experience.
If you love cookie concoctions, try these variations alongside recipes for Chocolate Churro Cookies or mix them with Christmas Mini Cookies for a delightful holiday spread!
Make Ahead Options
These Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time on hectic days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Simply scoop the dough into golf ball-sized portions, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and cover tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, just pop the dough directly from the fridge into a preheated oven, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, warm cookies just as delicious as if they were made on the spot—without the last-minute rush!
Tips for the Best Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies
Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors and helps cookies maintain their shape during baking.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep a watchful eye on the baking time; cookies should be just set and soft in the center for that delightful chewy texture.
Sticky Dough Fix: If your dough feels too sticky, gradually add flour—one tablespoon at a time—until it’s manageable. This helps in shaping perfect cookies.
Use Quality Cherries: Selecting plump, glossy maraschino cherries ensures juicy bursts of flavor in every bite of your Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies.
Add a Twist: Try incorporating orange zest or a bit of peppermint extract for a unique flavor twist that elevates your cookie game!
How to Store and Freeze Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, ensuring they stay soft and chewy.
Fridge: You can also refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 week; just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying!
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back their delicious chewiness, perfect for indulging anytime!
What to Serve with Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies
The perfect meal deserves the perfect companion; these delightful cookies are no exception, offering a joyous finale to any gathering.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a luxurious contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies, enhancing their sweetness.
- Fresh Berries: Light and refreshing, a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of color and a tartness that beautifully balances the cookie’s rich flavors.
- Chocolate Milkshake: The rich chocolate flavor of a milkshake pairs harmoniously, creating a nostalgic moment reminiscent of childhood desserts.
- Coconut Macaroons: These chewy coconut delights bring a different texture and a hint of tropical flavor, complementing the fruity cherry notes wonderfully.
- Whipped Cream Topping: Serve with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for an airy topping that lifts the intensity of the cookie’s chocolate and cherry flavors.
- Iced Coffee: A refreshing glass of iced coffee provides a kick of caffeine, perfectly contrasting the sweetness of the cookies and enhancing a lovely afternoon treat.
- Cherry Limeade: This tangy, refreshing beverage brightens the palate and echoes the fruity cherry essence, creating a charming pairing that feels festive.
- Dark Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of these snacks alongside your cookies offers a new playful texture that enhances the overall dessert experience when enjoyed together.
Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for plump and glossy maraschino cherries without dark spots. The brighter the cherries, the better they’ll taste in your cookies! You want those gorgeous bursts of sweetness in every bite.
How do I store my Maraschino Cherry Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to stay fresher longer, refrigerate them in the same type of container for up to a week. This will keep your cookies soft and chewy, which is exactly how we want them!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Very! To freeze the dough, scoop it into golf ball-sized portions and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the balls to a freezer bag or container, sealing it well. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time, baking straight from frozen!
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
If your cookies are spreading excessively, it might be due to the butter being too soft or melted. Ensure your butter is at room temperature—soft but not greasy—and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps them maintain their shape as they bake, resulting in those lovely soft, chewy Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies you desire!
Are these cookies safe for nut allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe is nut-free as written. However, if you choose to include almond extract, you’ll want to avoid that for anyone with nut allergies. Opt for pure vanilla extract instead, ensuring everyone can indulge in these delightful treats without worry.
Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies You'll Crave Daily
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until fluffy.
- Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and mix until just combined.
- Add the pink gel food coloring if desired and mix until evenly distributed.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Fold in the chopped cherries and chocolate chips with a spatula.
- Scoop the dough into golf ball-sized portions and place them on the baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10 to 13 minutes until set and lightly golden around the edges.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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