Print

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a perfect harmony of juicy cherry bursts and rich, melty chocolate chips. These chewy, flavorful cookies blend nostalgic charm with a fun twist on traditional chocolate chip cookies, making them an irresistible treat for all occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add-ins

  • 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped finely and well drained
  • 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Chop maraschino cherries finely, drain well, and set aside. Measure all other ingredients.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined to ensure consistent texture.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This aerates the mixture to create tender cookies.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract for warm, rich flavor.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
  6. Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough for a harmonious blend in every bite. Fold in nuts if using.
  7. Shape and Bake: Scoop dough into rounded tablespoons and place on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are golden and centers remain soft.
  8. Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps achieve the perfect chewy texture.

Notes

  • Drain maraschino cherries thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the dough too wet.
  • Use room temperature butter and eggs for easier mixing and smoother dough.
  • Remove cookies when edges are set but centers are still soft to keep them chewy.
  • For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: maraschino cherry cookies, chocolate chip cookies, cherry chocolate cookies, chewy cookies, homemade cookies