Introduction
Few things in life bring more joy than the sweet combination of chocolate and cherries. Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that seamlessly merges the tartness of maraschino cherries with the rich, decadent flavor of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Each bite bursts with a balance of chewy sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth goodness, making these cookies an instant favorite. Whether you’re whipping these up for a special occasion, gifting them to a loved one, or simply indulging in a little self-care treat, these cookies hit the spot every time.
The origins of chocolate chip cookies date back to the 1930s, but adding maraschino cherries elevates them to a whole new level. These bright red cherries, commonly used as a garnish for cocktails or desserts, add a touch of sweetness and an irresistible pop of color. Their juice also infuses the dough with subtle cherry flavor, making these cookies extra special.
Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to brighten up any dessert table or cookie jar.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice (from the jar)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking. Proper preparation of your workspace is key to smooth baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth. This step should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed. It’s important that the butter is softened and not melted, as this gives the cookies their chewy texture.
Once creamed, add in the maraschino cherry juice, which will lend a slight pink hue to the dough, along with the egg and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until all the ingredients are fully incorporated, and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. The baking powder will give the cookies their rise, while the salt enhances all the flavors. Gradually, add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as that can result in tough cookies instead of the soft and chewy texture we’re aiming for.
Step 4: Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Now for the fun part—folding in the stars of the show! Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and the 3/4 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. You want to make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The cherries will bring a slight tartness, while the chocolate chips provide richness, making each bite a perfect blend of flavors.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for the cookies to spread. For an extra touch, press a few additional chocolate chips onto the tops of each cookie—this will give them an attractive, bakery-style look once baked.
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and have turned a light golden brown. The centers should remain soft and slightly underdone, as they will continue to cook while cooling. Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
COOKING Note:
It’s important to avoid overbaking these cookies to keep them chewy and soft. Even if the centers seem slightly underdone when you take them out of the oven, they will firm up as they cool. Keeping an eye on the edges will ensure they reach that perfect golden brown. Using maraschino cherries that have been patted dry will help prevent excess moisture, which can make the cookies too soft or soggy.
Serving Suggestions:
These cookies are ideal for any occasion—serve them as an afternoon snack with a cold glass of milk, or as an elegant dessert with coffee or tea. They’re also perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or as homemade gifts. To make them extra special, you can drizzle some melted chocolate over the tops once they’ve cooled or dip half of each cookie into chocolate for a more decadent presentation.
Tips:
- Chop cherries finely: Make sure the maraschino cherries are chopped finely to avoid large chunks, which can cause the cookies to spread unevenly.
- Room-temperature ingredients: Always use room-temperature butter and egg for the best consistency in your dough.
- Experiment with chocolate: Feel free to switch up the chocolate chips. White chocolate or dark chocolate chips would also complement the cherry flavor beautifully.
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for up to three months.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 12 minutes
Total Time:
- 27 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 60mg
Conclusion:
Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect combination of chewy, sweet, and chocolatey with a delightful cherry twist. They not only look gorgeous with their pops of red from the cherries but also taste irresistible. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.
The subtle tang from the cherries, combined with the richness of chocolate chips, creates a flavor pairing that’s hard to resist. Plus, the recipe is simple and straightforward, making it an excellent choice for bakers of all levels. The next time you’re in the mood for something a little different, give these cookies a try—you won’t regret it!
FAQ:
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
While fresh cherries can be used, maraschino cherries have a firmer texture and sweeter flavor that complements the chocolate chips well. If using fresh cherries, ensure they are well-drained and patted dry to avoid adding too much moisture to the dough.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I use other types of chocolate chips?
Yes, feel free to swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk, dark, or even white chocolate chips depending on your preference.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to overly softened butter or too much moisture from the cherries. Be sure to use softened (not melted) butter, and pat the cherries dry before adding them to the dough.
If you’re eager to explore a wider variety of mouthwatering recipes, you can click here to uncover a collection of dishes that suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for quick and easy meals or something more elaborate, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to elevate your cooking experience!