Name: Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies You’ll Crave Daily
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Can substitute with gluten-free blend); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt (Just a pinch goes a long way); 1 cup unsalted butter (Softened at room temperature); 1 cup light brown sugar (Can substitute for dark brown sugar); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs (For vegan option, use flax eggs); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Use pure extract for best results); 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (Omit if allergic); 1 drop pink gel food coloring (Optional for visual appeal); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (Can use dark or milk chocolate); 1 cup maraschino cherries (Drain well before use)

“Have you ever experienced the magic of a cookie that feels like a warm hug? The Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies combine the rich, creamy presence of chocolate with the delightful pop of maraschino cherries for a treat that’s simply unforgettable. With their soft and chewy texture, these cookies are not just an indulgence; they’re a crowd-pleaser that comes together in just 40 minutes! Perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike, this simple baking wonder allows you to create delicious memories without fuss. So, are you ready to bring a little sweetness into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful baking adventure!”

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Unmatched Flavor: The delightful combination of rich chocolate and sweet, juicy maraschino cherries creates a unique taste that’s both familiar and exciting.

Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes of your time, even novice bakers can whip these up, making them a fantastic choice for unexpected guests or simple weeknight treats.

Customizable Fun: Feel free to experiment! Add a dash of orange zest for a citrus kick or substitute with nuts for a crunchy texture that complements the soft cookie base.

Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are designed to impress at gatherings, just like my popular Chocolate Churro Cookies or Tiramisu Christmas Cookies. Friends and family will be asking for seconds!

Get ready to indulge in a cookie experience like no other.

Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure; feel free to swap for a gluten-free blend if needed.
• Cornstarch – Enhances softness for that perfect chewy texture.
• Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring lovely fluffy cookies.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness; just a pinch goes a long way.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture; remember to let it soften at room temperature!
• Light brown sugar – Infuses a subtle caramel flavor; you can switch to dark brown sugar for a bolder taste.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetness is key; keeping it moderate helps balance the flavors.
• Large eggs – Essential for binding; for vegan cookies, use flax eggs as a substitute.
• Vanilla extract – Deepens the overall flavor; opt for pure extract for the best results.
• Almond extract – This adds a nutty note; feel free to omit if you have nut allergies.
• Pink gel food coloring – Purely for visual appeal; it’s optional but fun!
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Bring flavor and texture; swap for dark or milk chocolate if preferred.
• Maraschino cherries – Offer sweet, juicy bursts; drain them well to prevent excess moisture.

Indulge in these Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies and set your taste buds dancing!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies You’ll Crave Daily

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step sets the stage for perfectly baked Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies that are both chewy and delightful.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Use a whisk to ensure they’re blended well and aerated, creating a light mixture that contributes to the cookies’ soft texture. Once combined, set this bowl aside for later use.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter along with light brown and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creamy base is essential for your Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies, enhancing their rich flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add in the large eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla and almond extract. Mix on low speed until everything is just combined, which helps maintain the cookie’s tender texture. Keep an eye out for a smooth and slightly glossy batter, indicating that your wet ingredients are ready.

Step 5: Tint the Dough
If you’re planning to use the optional pink gel food coloring, now is the time to blend it into your batter. Stir continuously until you reach your desired shade, adding a fun pop of color that makes your Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies visually appealing as well as delicious.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure no clumps of flour remain. The result should be a cohesive cookie dough ready for the exciting ingredients to come.

Step 7: Fold in Add-ins
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries using a spatula. This step is crucial as it ensures an even distribution of the chocolate and fruity bursts in each bite. Look for a thick, chunky dough that’s packed with bits of cherries and chocolate.

Step 8: Scoop Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, you can press extra chocolate chips and cherries on top of each dough ball for that extra delightful presentation. This preparation sets you up for a beautiful final product.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-13 minutes. Keep a watchful eye on them; they should be just set and golden around the edges, while still soft in the center. This is key to achieving the chewy texture you desire in your cookies.

Step 10: Cool Completely
Once baked, let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes. This cooling time allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. After moving them, let the cookies cool completely, so they maintain their delightful chewy texture while enjoying the rich flavors of the chocolate and cherries.

What to Serve with Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Savor the sweetness of these delightful cookies by pairing them with delectable side dishes and beverages that enhance their whimsical charm.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating an irresistible contrast in every bite.
Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries bring a refreshing tartness that cuts through the cookie’s sweetness, adding a burst of color and flavor to your dessert plate.
Hot Chocolate: Warm, decadent hot chocolate complements the chocolate chips and cherries, creating a cozy treat that invites you to indulge even more.
Milk: The perfect classic dipper! Enjoy these cookies alongside a chilled glass of milk to enhance their soft and chewy texture with every bite.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel over your cookies adds a touch of decadence, making them feel like a gourmet treat perfect for special occasions.
Chocolate-Covered Cherries: For an extra indulgent experience, serve alongside chocolate-covered cherries. It mirrors the cookie’s flavors while elevating the overall dessert experience.

Enhancing your cookie enjoyment is about creating little moments of joy, one bite at a time!

Make Ahead Options

These Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 72 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For longer storage, the unbaked dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before baking to ensure they bake evenly. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, delicious cookies without the last-minute hustle, making any day feel special!

Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies Variations

Feel free to experiment with these scrumptious twists and substitutions that will bring your baking to new heights!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs while retaining that chewy texture.
Vegan: Use coconut oil in place of butter and flax eggs instead of regular eggs for a delicious plant-based option.
Extra Flavor: Add a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrus twist that brightens the cookie’s sweetness and complements the cherries.
Nutty Texture: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that pairs harmoniously with the soft dough.
Minty Fresh: A few drops of peppermint extract can transform these cookies into a refreshing treat, perfect for festive occasions.
Spicy Surprise: Add a pinch of cayenne for a surprising kick that elevates the cookie with a hint of warmth and intrigue.
Fruit Swap: Substitute maraschino cherries with dried cranberries for a chewy, tart alternative that still balances beautifully with chocolate.

For those special occasions where variety is key, don’t forget to check out my delightful Tiramisu Christmas Cookies and Chocolate Churro Cookies for more baking inspiration!

Storage Tips for Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, perfect for indulging throughout the week.
Fridge: If you prefer a cooler treat, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: Unbaked dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Form dough balls and place them in a freezer-safe bag, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time when baking from frozen.
Reheating: To revitalize leftover cookies, gently warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will renew their chewy charm and bring back the delightful flavors of the maraschino cherries!

Expert Tips for Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Chill the Dough: Allow the dough to chill for 30 minutes before baking; this enhances flavors and helps the cookies maintain their shape.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be soft in the center when you take them out for that perfect chewy texture.
Manage Stickiness: If your dough feels too sticky, gradually add flour until it’s workable—just don’t overdo it, or your cookies may turn out dry.
Ingredient Quality Matters: Use high-quality chocolate chips and pure vanilla extract, as they significantly elevate the flavor of your Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Cookies.
Creative Variations: Experiment with ingredients like orange zest or nuts for extra flavor, ensuring your cookies remain a personal family favorite!

Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! When selecting maraschino cherries, look for those that are vibrantly colored and free of dark spots or blemishes. A properly drained cherry should have a firm texture and a pleasant sweetness without excessive syrup coating. I often make sure to choose high-quality brands that use real cherries for the best flavor in my cookies.

What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Very! Once the cookies have cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and chewy. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just let them come to room temperature before indulging!

Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Yes, you can! To freeze the unbaked cookie dough, first scoop the dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your cookie dough feels overly sticky to handle, simply sprinkle in a bit of all-purpose flour (about one tablespoon at a time) while mixing until you achieve the right texture. Just be cautious—too much flour will make your cookies dry, so add gradually until the dough is manageable.

Are these cookies safe for my pets?
No, it’s important to note that these cookies are not safe for pets. The ingredients like chocolate and certain alcohol-based extracts can be harmful to dogs and cats. If your furry friends look at you longingly, perhaps consider making a special batch of dog-friendly treats instead!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Make sure to choose a blend that has xanthan gum included, as this will help mimic the texture of traditional flour. Always remember to check the labels for any cross-contamination if you’re particularly sensitive!