Name: Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies That Dazzle and Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 38 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Use a kitchen scale for consistent results.); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (Can be omitted for a simpler recipe.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Acts as a leavening agent.); 1 pinch salt (Balance the sweetness.); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (Substitute with white chocolate for a twist.); ½ cup unsalted butter (Must be at room temperature.); ½ cup light brown sugar (Can switch to dark brown sugar.); ½ cup granulated sugar (Adjust according to sweetness preference.); 1 large egg (Use room temperature for better incorporation.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (No substitutes recommended.); ½ teaspoon almond extract (Omit for a simpler flavor.); a few drops pink gel food coloring (Avoid liquid food coloring for vibrancy.); 1 cup maraschino cherries (Drain and finely chop.)

As I was rummaging through my pantry one afternoon, the sight of maraschino cherries transported me back to festive gatherings filled with laughter and sweetness. Inspired by this nostalgic moment, I decided to whip up a batch of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies. Not only are these vibrant pink cookies a showstopper at any celebration, but they also take merely 10 minutes to prepare! With the delightful combination of chewy chocolate chips and bright cherry flavor, they’re perfect for parties, baby showers, or simply when you want a sweet treat without the fuss. Plus, they can easily adapt to gluten-free diets, making them a versatile pick for all. Are you ready to create a cookie that will bring joy to any occasion? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Vibrant Color: These Maraschino Cherry Cookies are a feast for the eyes with their stunning pink hue, making them a standout on any dessert table.
Quick Prep: With only 10 minutes of prep time, they’re perfect for those last-minute gatherings or when cravings strike unexpectedly.
Versatile Recipe: Whether you’re gluten-free or just want pure cherry cookies, this recipe can easily be adjusted to suit your needs.
Nostalgic Flavor: Brimming with the delightful taste of maraschino cherries and chocolate chips, they evoke memories of joyous celebrations with every bite.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for parties, baby showers, or any festive occasion, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends who will be asking for seconds! Try them alongside other delightful treats like Cherry Blondies Delightful.

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use a kitchen scale to measure for consistent results.
Cornstarch – Adds softness and chewiness; can be omitted for a simpler recipe.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; ensures the cookies have a slight rise.
Salt – Balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the cookies.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds delightful sweetness and chocolate flavor; substitute with white chocolate for a twist.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes fat and moisture; must be at room temperature for easier mixing.
Light Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and a rich caramel flavor; can switch to dark brown sugar for a deeper taste.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough; adjust according to your sweetness preference.
Large Eggs – Binds and adds moisture; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; no substitutes recommended to maintain authentic taste.
Almond Extract – Enhances the cherry flavor; omit for a simpler profile.
Pink Gel Food Coloring – Offers visual appeal; avoid liquid food coloring for the same vibrant effect.
Maraschino Cherries – Infuses flavor and color into the cookies; drain and finely chop for the best texture.

With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’re just a step away from baking the most delightful Maraschino Cherry Cookies that will dazzle and delight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. This initial step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your Maraschino Cherry Cookies, ensuring they bake evenly and turn a lovely golden color.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. These dry ingredients create the foundation for your cookie dough, contributing structure and softness. Once well combined, set the mixture aside and focus on preparing the wet ingredients for a smooth transition.

Step 3: Combine the Sugars and Butter
In a separate large bowl, beat together ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of light brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Whip the mixture for about 2 minutes until it’s fluffy and light in color. This step incorporates air into the dough, which is essential for achieving soft and chewy Maraschino Cherry Cookies.

Step 4: Add the Egg and Flavorings
Next, add in 1 large room-temperature egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract. Also, incorporate a few drops of pink gel food coloring to achieve that vibrant hue. Mix well until fully combined, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully, bringing the delightful cherry essence out in the cookies.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix the dry ingredient blend into the wet mixture, stirring until a thick dough forms. Make sure there are no flour streaks remaining, which will ensure every bite of your Maraschino Cherry Cookies is flavorful and well-balanced. This will be a sticky dough, full of promise for deliciousness to come.

Step 6: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in 1 cup of finely chopped maraschino cherries and 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into the dough. This step offers bursts of sweet and fruity flavors, making your cookies extra special. The color and texture of the batter will delight you as you see the cherries and chocolate distributed throughout.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into smooth balls. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between for spreading. Before baking, press a few extra maraschino cherries and chocolate chips on top of each dough ball to enhance the visual appeal of your Maraschino Cherry Cookies.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 13 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as overbaking can dull their vibrant pink color and make them less chewy. When done, the cookies should be soft in the center to maintain that delightful texture.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once you remove the cookies from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes. This cooling time allows them to set properly without falling apart. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, and they will be ready to serve at your next festive gathering!

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you explore fun twists and swaps for these delightful cookies!

Gluten-Free: Use King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure flour to create a gluten-free version that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Cherry Overload: Increase the maraschino cherries to 1.5 cups for an extra burst of cherry flavor. This twist amps up the sweetness and adds even more vibrant color to your cookies.
White Chocolate Bliss: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips to create a delightful contrast with the cherries. The creamy sweetness complements the tartness beautifully!
Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The addition of nuts enhances the texture while introducing a nutty flavor that pairs well with cherries.
Almond Extract Substitution: If you prefer vanilla over almond, simply omit the almond extract and double the vanilla for a unique taste. This adjustment gives the cookies a classic vibe while still celebrating the cherry.
Spice It Up: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy undertone, making these cookies perfect for fall gatherings.
Festive Touch: Add festive sprinkles or colored sugar on top before baking for a celebratory look that’s perfect for holidays or special events. They’ll be eye-catching delights on any dessert table!
Candy Surprise: Fold in crushed candy canes for a peppermint twist during winter holidays, bringing a refreshing flavor that will dazzle your guests.

These delightful variations ensure you can enjoy your Maraschino Cherry Cookies in new and exciting ways. For an added treat, try serving them alongside other sweet delights like Cherry Blondies Delightful and watch your cookie tray become the centerpiece of the celebration!

Make Ahead Options

These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are just perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients, then covering it tightly and refrigerating it. If you’re planning to bake later, simply scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment, but don’t press the extra cherries and chocolate on top yet – do that just before baking. This will ensure they maintain their delightful texture and vibrant color. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and freeze them for up to 3 months in an airtight container. When ready to serve, just let them thaw at room temperature, and they’ll be just as delicious as the day you made them!

Storage Tips for Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor.

Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying them again.

Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, reheat in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent drying out.

Wrapping: Always ensure to wrap cookies individually or layer them with parchment paper in the container to avoid sticking and maintain their visual appeal.

Expert Tips for Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Accurate Measurement: Ensure to weigh your flour or use the spoon and sweep method to avoid dense cookies. This is essential for fluffy Maraschino Cherry Cookies.
Cherries Matter: Thoroughly drain and pat dry the maraschino cherries to minimize excess moisture in the dough, which could lead to soggy cookies.
Perfect Timing: Bake until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft. Overbaking will result in dry cookies and diminish their signature pink hue.
Blend Carefully: Fold the cherries and chocolate chips gently into the dough to keep the bits intact, enhancing the delightful texture of the Maraschino Cherry Cookies.
Cool Down: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. This step is crucial to prevent them from breaking apart.

What to Serve with Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Imagine a delightful spread that complements the vibrant flavors of these chewy, sweet treats—perfect for sharing or savoring on your own.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of sweet vanilla ice cream adds a lovely contrast to the chewy texture and enhances the cherry flavor in each bite.
Chocolate Milkshake: This indulgent drink, with its rich chocolate flavor, pairs beautifully, creating a nostalgic dessert experience reminiscent of childhood.
Fresh Berry Salad: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offers a refreshing, tart counterpart to the sweetness of the cookies, balancing the flavor perfectly.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this whipped cream provides a tropical twist while complementing the maraschino cherries’ flavor without overwhelming it.
Festive Fruit Punch: A bubbly, fruity punch serves as a fun drink option, adding a splash of color and a refreshing sip between cookie bites.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These sweet treats can elevate your cookie platter, adding an elegant touch and an exciting flavor combination that tantalizes the taste buds.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance these cookies by adding a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top for a luxurious and rich depth of flavor.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: For an extra twist, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar over the cookies before serving; the warmth of cinnamon brings out the cherry notes beautifully.

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! When selecting maraschino cherries, look for vibrant red ones that are firm and plump, and avoid any that have dark spots or appear overly mushy. Freshness matters, as they will directly influence the flavor and texture of your cookies. For the best results, opt for brands that use high-quality cherries soaked in syrup, which will add sweetness and moisture to the cookies.

What is the best way to store Maraschino Cherry Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’re looking to preserve them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just remember to layer them with parchment paper or wrap them individually to prevent sticking. This way, you can take out a few at a time as needed, enjoying their delightful taste even after some time!

Can I freeze the cookie dough before baking?
Yes, absolutely! Freezing the cookie dough is a great way to prepare ahead. Once you’ve mixed all the ingredients, scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can bake them directly from frozen; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

What should I do if the cookie dough is too wet?
Very! If you notice that your dough is too wet or sticky, it might be due to the moisture content in the maraschino cherries. To troubleshoot this, try chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up. Additionally, you can gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved. Remember, the dough should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped!

Are these Maraschino Cherry Cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! To create a gluten-free version, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend like King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure. This will allow you to maintain the original flavor and texture without compromising on taste. Just be sure to check for any other ingredients that may contain gluten, like certain brands of baking soda.

How can I tell if my cookies are finished baking?
Great question! You’ll want to keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center—if they look fully baked, you might be overbaking! A perfect test is to gently press your finger in the middle; it should leave a slight indentation. After baking, allow them to cool on the sheet for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to set. This will ensure they stay chewy and delicious!