If there’s one cookie that strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nostalgia, it’s the Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe. Combining the rich sweetness of chocolate chips with the tangy zing of maraschino cherries, these cookies offer a treat for all the senses. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that not only surprises you with pockets of gooey chocolate but also delights with bursts of cherry flavor. These cookies are not only perfect for a casual snack but are also great for formal gatherings, adding a touch of both color and flavor. The irresistibility doesn’t stop at the taste; the ease of making these cookies ensures that even beginners can join the baking craze. Let’s delve into this delightful recipe that will surely become a staple in your baking repertoire.
One of the great attributes of this recipe is its simplicity. Even if you possess a stock of staple baking ingredients, you likely already have the majority needed to whip up a batch of these delightful cookies. With straightforward instructions and no intricate techniques required, anyone can enjoy the fulfillment of creating delicious cookies from scratch. Additionally, the option to tweak the ingredients allows bakers to experiment and adapt to their preferences. The chewy texture complemented by the slightly crisp edges and the harmony of flavors make these cookies a crowd favorite. Ready to surprise your taste buds with something unique? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Flavorful Fusion: Delight in the unique combination of semisweet chocolate and sweet maraschino cherries.
- Simple to Make: This recipe is straightforward and suitable for both beginner and seasoned bakers.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with substitutions for dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
- Perfect Texture: Enjoy the ideal balance of chewy and crispy in every bite.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To achieve the best results, start by preparing your kitchen space to maximize efficiency. Clear the countertop to give yourself ample space to work. Assemble all the necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth baking process. You’ll need a large mixing bowl, which is essential for creaming the butter and sugars. Another bowl will be needed for mixing the dry ingredients before gradually incorporating them into the wet mixture. A whisk, spatula, and an electric mixer can tremendously aid your mixing process, enabling a consistent batter. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure an even bake. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so that it reaches the right temperature by the time your dough is ready. With these preparations and tools, you’ll set a strong foundation for a successful baking journey.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it sets the stage for baking crisp yet chewy cookies. As the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper, which helps in ensuring cookies do not adhere to the sheet and cook evenly.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar. Use an electric mixer for this process to achieve a light and fluffy texture. This step is key to incorporating air into the dough for a soft cookie texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully integrated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract. These wet ingredients combine with the creamed mixture to add flavor and moisture to the cookies.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies.
Step 5: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and semisweet chocolate chips using a spatula. The folding technique ensures even distribution without breaking the cherries.
Step 6: Shape and Bake Cookies
Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for spreading. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. It’s essential to monitor the cookies to prevent over-baking.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This cooling period helps set the cookies’ shape, ensuring optimal texture when fully cooled.
Variations
- Protein: Add a scoop of protein powder to the flour mixture for an extra nutritional boost without altering the flavor.
- Vegetables: Incorporate finely shredded zucchini for added moisture and nutrients without affecting the flavor profile.
- Spices: Enhance the cookie’s flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning to guarantee thorough mixing and even baking.
- Feel free to toast the cherries lightly to intensify their flavor and counterbalance the chocolate’s sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the cookies with a glass of cold milk to enhance the indulgent experience and truly complement their rich flavors.
- Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert that highlights and contrasts with the warm cookies.
Tips
- To maintain the cookies’ freshness, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For a more decorative presentation, press additional chocolate chips on top of the dough balls before baking.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-27 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie
- Protein: 2g per cookie
- Sodium: 100mg per cookie
FAQs
Why did my cookies spread too much?
Ensure your dough is well chilled before baking, which helps the cookies maintain their shape.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but ensure they are pitted and dried before incorporating into the dough to avoid excess moisture.
How can I make these cookies chewier?
Increase the brown sugar slightly in the recipe as it attracts moisture, resulting in a chewier cookie.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely, you can freeze the dough balls on a tray before transferring them into a sealed bag for up to three months.
Conclusion
These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are more than just an indulgence; they’re an experience. Whether you’re baking for a family event or simply looking to indulge your taste buds, these cookies make an exceptional choice. Their unique flavor profile with a fusion of cherry and chocolate promises delight with each bite. We love to hear how your baking experience went! Feel free to leave a comment or share any unique variations you tried. Happy baking!
Print
Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 25-27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
If there’s one cookie that strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nostalgia, it’s the Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe. Combining the rich sweetness of chocolate chips with the tangy zing of maraschino cherries, these cookies offer a treat for all the senses.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it sets the stage for baking crisp yet chewy cookies. As the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper, which helps in ensuring cookies do not adhere to the sheet and cook evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar. Use an electric mixer for this process to achieve a light and fluffy texture. This step is key to incorporating air into the dough for a soft cookie texture.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully integrated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract. These wet ingredients combine with the creamed mixture to add flavor and moisture to the cookies.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies.
- Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and semisweet chocolate chips using a spatula. The folding technique ensures even distribution without breaking the cherries.
- Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for spreading. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. It’s essential to monitor the cookies to prevent over-baking.
- After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This cooling period helps set the cookies’ shape, ensuring optimal texture when fully cooled.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning to guarantee thorough mixing and even baking. Feel free to toast the cherries lightly to intensify their flavor and counterbalance the chocolate’s sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Protein: 2 g