Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cookie that many of us know and love. Imagine biting into a warm, gooey cookie, where the rich chocolate chips meld perfectly with the sweet, tangy burst of maraschino cherries. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a splash of color and fun to your dessert table.

Originating from the traditional chocolate chip cookie, which has been a beloved treat since the 1930s, the addition of maraschino cherries adds a unique flair that elevates this cookie to a whole new level. People adore these cookies for their chewy texture, the delightful contrast of flavors, and the convenience of whipping them up in no time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and create something truly special!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, I start by creaming together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. I use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the butter, making the cookies tender.
2. Next, I add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, I pour in the vanilla extract and continue to mix until everything is well combined. The batter should be smooth and creamy at this point.
3. In a separate bowl, I whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour.
4. Gradually, I add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. I make sure not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
5. Now, it’s time to fold in the chocolate chips, chopped maraschino cherries, and nuts (if using). I use a spatula for this step, gently folding until the mix-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Chilling the Dough

1. Once the dough is ready, I cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to solidify the butter, which results in thicker cookies that don’t spread too much while baking.

Prepping for Baking

1. While the dough chills, I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies start baking at the right temperature for the best texture.
2. I line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This not only prevents the cookies from sticking but also makes for easy cleanup.

Baking the Cookies

1. After the dough has chilled, I take it out of the refrigerator. Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, I portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
2. I gently press down on each cookie dough ball to flatten them slightly. This helps them bake evenly and gives them a nice shape.
3. Now, I pop the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look a bit underbaked, but they will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
4. Once baked, I take the cookies out of the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storing the Cookies

1. Once the cookies are completely cool, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, but I can guarantee they won’t last that long!
2. If I want to keep them longer, I can freeze the cookies. I place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for a couple of hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When I’m ready to enjoy them, I simply thaw them at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

• Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This is key for the right texture.
• Don’t skip the chilling step! It really helps with the cookie structure

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their cookie game. The delightful combination of sweet, tangy cherries and rich chocolate chips creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also look stunning with their vibrant red cherries peeking through the golden-brown cookie dough, making them perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even experiment with variations by adding nuts for a crunchy texture or swapping out the chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless! I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of baking these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a picture of your delicious creations. Let’s spread the love for these cookies together! Happy baking!

Print