Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of maraschino cherries with the rich flavor of chocolate chips. These cookies are not just visually appealing with their bright red cherries, but they are also incredibly delicious. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies will surely impress your family and friends, and they can be made quickly for a last-minute dessert. Let’s explore how to create these delightful cookies that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip

You’ll absolutely love these cookies for many reasons! First, they are incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for baking novices and experts alike. Second, the combination of flavors in chocolate chip cookies with maraschino cherries adds a unique twist that sets them apart from traditional chocolate chip cookies. This dessert is also festive and colorful, making it ideal for holiday gatherings or birthday parties. Plus, you can easily adapt the recipe into Maraschino cherry chocolate chip muffins or even a Maraschino cherry chocolate chip cake for different occasions. The versatility of this recipe is endless. Lastly, they are vegetarian-friendly, accommodating various dietary preferences!

Ingredients for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip

Gather these items:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup maraschino cherries, chopped and patted dry
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

How to Make Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Step-by-Step

Step 1: Drain and chop the maraschino cherries, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
Step 2: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: In a large bowl, beat the butter with both sugars until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 6: Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined.
Step 7: Fold in the chopped cherries and chocolate chips evenly.
Step 8: Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Step 9: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are golden and centers are still soft.
Step 10: Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh maraschino cherries for best flavor.
Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness.
These cookies freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep or last-minute treats.
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of almond extract to the dough.

Best Ways to Serve Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip

There are several delightful ways to enjoy these cookies! Serve them warm with a scoop of Maraschino cherry chocolate chip ice cream for a decadent dessert. You can also crumble them over a Maraschino cherry chocolate chip cheesecake for added texture and flavor. For a festive touch, serve them on a dessert platter alongside Maraschino cherry chocolate chip brownies and chocolate chip maraschino cherry dessert cups, creating a colorful dessert spread!

Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip cookies on a cooling rack

How to Store and Reheat Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip

To store your delicious cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their freshly baked taste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip

What’s the secret to perfect Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip?

The secret lies in ensuring the maraschino cherries are well-drained and patted dry before adding them to the dough. This prevents the cookies from becoming too wet and helps maintain their shape.

Can I make Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days. When ready to bake, simply scoop the dough onto baking sheets and bake as directed.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to accurately measure your flour and avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies. Also, ensure your oven temperature is correct for even baking.

Variations of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these fun variations! Create Maraschino cherry chocolate chip scones for a delightful breakfast treat, or try Maraschino cherry chocolate chip pancakes for a fun twist on a classic brunch item. For a richer dessert, consider making Maraschino cherry chocolate chip fudge or a Maraschino cherry chocolate chip bar recipe. The possibilities are truly endless!

Ingredients for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip cookies

For more delicious recipes, check out this link for a chocolate chip cookie variation, or learn how to make chocolate chip muffins. If you’re interested in baking tips, visit this page for expert advice!