Name: Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies – A Sweet Twist!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (or margarine/coconut oil for dairy-free); 1 cup White Sugar (can be substituted but may affect flavor); 1 cup Brown Sugar (can be replaced with white sugar); 2 large Eggs (can replace with flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water = 1 egg)); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (highly recommended for the best flavor); 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (use a gluten-free flour blend if needed); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (ensure it’s fresh for optimal results); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (kosher or table salt works); 1 cup Chocolate Chips (can swap for white chocolate or dark chocolate); 1 cup Maraschino Cherries (drain well if using fresh cherries)

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As I gazed at the last remnants of cookie dough in my mixing bowl, a sudden spark of inspiration hit me. Why not take the classic chocolate chip cookie and give it a fruity twist? That’s how these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies came to life—each delightful bite pairs the gooey richness of chocolate with the tangy sweetness of maraschino cherries. Not only are these cookies quick and easy to whip up, but they also elevate a beloved treat into something extraordinary, making them perfect for any occasion. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goodness—trust me, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe! Curious about how to make this deliciously unique treat? Let’s dive in!

Why are these cookies a game changer?

Uniqueness: These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies put a delightful twist on your classic favorites! The addition of fruity cherries creates an exciting contrast that your taste buds will adore.

Versatility: Feel free to play with mix-ins! Want to switch it up? Try white chocolate or coconut flakes for extra flair, or add in nuts for a satisfying crunch.

Freshness: Enjoy the homemade goodness that comes from simple ingredients and a quick bake! You can easily whip up a batch with items already in your pantry.

Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are great for sharing! Whether at a party or with your family, they bring smiles and satisfaction to everyone.

Plus, they pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee, making them an ideal treat any time. Don’t forget to also check out my recipes for Butter Toffee Chocolate and Vintage Maraschino Cherry for even more inspiration!

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Butter – Adds richness and a chewy texture; for a dairy-free option, you can use margarine or coconut oil.
• White Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps with browning; substituting may affect the overall flavor balance.
• Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a subtle caramel flavor; can be replaced with an equal amount of white sugar, though it may alter texture.
• Eggs – Binds the mixture and provides structure; for a vegan alternative, replace with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile, and though optional, it’s highly recommended for the best taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for the right rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results to create your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.
• Salt – Balances sweetness to enhance flavors; kosher or table salt works, depending on your preference.
• Chocolate Chips – Brings rich chocolatey goodness; swap them out with white chocolate or dark chocolate for different flavors.
• Maraschino Cherries – Offers fruity sweetness and vibrant color; if fresh cherries are preferred, make sure to drain them well to maintain the cookie texture.

Indulging in these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies is sure to bring warmth to your home and smiles to your loved ones!

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This little step ensures that your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies will bake evenly and slide off easily once baked.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter with both white and brown sugars. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This process incorporates air into the dough, which will help create chewy cookies.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time to your creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Next, stir in the vanilla extract, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed to combine everything evenly. This step enriches the flavor of your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well blended. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to dense cookies instead of the soft and chewy texture we desire.

Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate and Cherries
Gently fold in the chocolate chips and the chopped maraschino cherries until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The vibrant red cherries and rich chocolate create the delicious contrast that defines your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies, adding their fruity sweetness to each bite.

Step 6: Scoop onto Baking Sheets
Using a cookie scoop or rounded tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking. This will help ensure that every cookie has room to puff up and bake to perfection.

Step 7: Bake Until Perfect
Place the sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown while the centers remain soft. Keep an eye on your cookies; they should look slightly underbaked in the center for that perfect chewy texture, characteristic of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Step 8: Cool Blissfully
Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up a bit before transferring to a wire rack. Cooling them properly enhances the texture and keeps them soft and chewy as they set up fully.

How to Store and Freeze Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture.

Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the container in the fridge where cookies can last up to a week; just bring them back to room temperature before serving.

Freezing Baked Cookies: To freeze cookies, stack them in layers separated by parchment paper in an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Cookie Dough Freezing: You can also freeze scooped portions of the cookie dough! Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for perfect Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Simply scoop the dough into balls and place them on parchment paper; then chill for the best texture. Alternatively, you can freeze the scooped dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, transfer the dough directly from the freezer to the oven, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This method ensures that you enjoy delicious, warm cookies at a moment’s notice without compromising their quality. Just imagine fresh, homemade cookies any busy weeknight!

What to Serve with Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect companions to round out your next gathering or simple family treat.

Cold Glass of Milk: The classic pairing enhances the cookies’ sweetness while helping to cleanse the palate between bites. There’s something nostalgic about this combination that brings back happy childhood memories.
Warm Cup of Coffee: The rich, aromatic notes of coffee beautifully contrast the sweet and fruity flavor of the cookies, making for a cozy afternoon snack.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful chill and richness that perfectly complements the chewy texture of the cookies. The warm cookie and cold ice cream combination is simply blissful!
Raspberry Sorbet: This light, tart sorbet balances the sweetness of the cookies and adds a refreshing zing to each bite, perfect for a warm day.
Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in a luscious chocolate milkshake to deepen the chocolate flavors in the cookies while adding a playful, creamy texture.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful assortment of chopped fruits adds a burst of freshness that enhances the vibrant flavors of the cherries, making for a well-rounded dessert table.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices of chai tea provide an exotic twist and a soothing warmth, creating an inviting atmosphere for savoring your cookies.
Whipped Cream Topping: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream on top of your cookies makes for an elegant treat—perfect for entertaining guests!

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these cookies to suit your taste and preferences!

Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly treat. Enjoy the same delightful chewiness without missing out!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or margarine instead of butter for a wonderful creamy texture that everyone’s bound to love. It’s an excellent way to cater to dietary needs while keeping that rich flavor.
Crunchy Texture: Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans to add a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor. The nutty notes perfectly complement the sweet cherries and chocolate.
Flavor Boost: Coconut Flakes: Stir in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist. This addition brings both flavor and an interesting texture that will surprise your taste buds!
Fresh Swap: Fresh Cherries: Substitute maraschino cherries with well-drained fresh cherries for a vibrant, tart spin. Just remember to remove excess moisture for the best cookie consistency.
Extra Sweetness: White Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter touch, swap half the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips. This creamy addition creates a delightful contrast with the cherries.
Spicy Kick: Cinnamon: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, aromatic twist. This spice pairs beautifully with chocolate, making your cookies reminiscent of cozy days by the fire.
S’mores Inspired: Graham Cracker Crumbs: Mix in crushed graham crackers for a campfire-inspired cookie. The subtle crunch adds an unexpected and delightful flavor profile!

These delicious variations ensure that there’s something for everyone! If you’re in the mood for more sweet inspiration, be sure to check out my recipes for Peanut Butter Cookies and Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake for more wonderful treats to bake together with these cookies!

Expert Tips for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for an even blend, contributing to the perfect texture in your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Avoid Overmixing: Stir just until combined; overmixing can create dense cookies instead of the light, chewy texture that everyone loves.
Moisture Control: If using fresh cherries, make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the dough, which can lead to a soggy cookie.
Baking Timing: Check your cookies at the 10-minute mark; they should be slightly underbaked in the center for optimal chewiness, as they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet.
Variation Suggestions: Don’t hesitate to experiment with other mix-ins like white chocolate, nuts, or even coconut flakes, giving your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies a deliciously unique twist!

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! When choosing maraschino cherries, look for those that are vibrant in color and have a glossy finish. Avoid jars with dark spots or a syrup that’s too cloudy, which can indicate age or quality issues. If opting for fresh cherries, pick fruit that is firm and bright, avoiding any with soft spots or blemishes.

What’s the best way to store these cookies?
For the best preservation, store your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain optimal moisture, you can add a slice of bread or a marshmallow inside the container. This extra touch will keep your cookies soft and delicious!

Can I freeze Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Definitely! To freeze baked cookies, stack them in layers separated by parchment paper in an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. For cookie dough, scoop the portions and freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to your baking time.

What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
Very common! If your cookies are dry, it may be due to overmixing the dough or using flour that’s been packed too tightly. To avoid this, gently mix until just combined and use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour. If they’re already baked, try adding a small slice of bread in your cookie container—it will help reintroduce moisture!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version of your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients, especially baking powder and any mix-ins, are also gluten-free to keep your cookies safe for those with dietary restrictions.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider?
While these cookies are generally safe for most, always be mindful of allergies when sharing. The recipe contains gluten (unless using a gluten-free flour) and may have dairy from butter and eggs. For a vegan option, substitute the butter with coconut oil or margarine, and replace eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).