I remember being five, my tiny hands covered in flour, attempting to roll out biscuit dough beside my grandma. It was lumpy and imperfect, but in her eyes, it was pure magic. That’s where my love for baking began, right there in her Asheville kitchen.
She always had a jar of gleaming maraschino cherries, reserved for special treats. One snowy afternoon, she created something truly extraordinary, a cookie that combined the sweet tartness of those cherries with the comforting richness of chocolate. That’s the genesis of my Heavenly Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies, a recipe that evokes warmth, nostalgia, and pure delight with every bite.
These maraschino cherry chocolate chip cookies aren’t just a dessert; they’re a hug from the past, baked with love and brimming with vibrant flavor. Get ready to bake a batch of happiness that will bring smiles to everyone lucky enough to try them.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re searching for a cookie that stands out from the crowd, look no further than these spectacular Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies. They offer a delightful twist on a timeless classic, elevating your baking game effortlessly. These aren’t your average chocolate chip cookies; they are a vibrant celebration of flavor and texture.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly chewy cookie, studded with bursts of juicy, sweet maraschino cherries and rich, melty chocolate chips. The contrast of the crimson cherries against the golden-brown cookie is visually stunning, making them a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Furthermore, the subtle almond notes from the maraschino cherries perfectly complement the chocolate, creating a symphony of flavors that is utterly irresistible.
I promise you, these Heavenly Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies will become a staple in your recipe collection. They are surprisingly easy to make, yet they taste incredibly gourmet, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring all by yourself. Every single bite delivers a joyful explosion of sweet and tangy goodness, making these cherry chocolate chip cookies truly unforgettable.
You’ll absolutely adore the unique charm and deliciousness these cookies bring to any occasion, big or small.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the ultimate batch of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies starts with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect texture and unforgettable flavor. Gather these items from your pantry and refrigerator, and you’ll be well on your way to baking bliss. We’ll focus on getting those maraschino cherries just right, ensuring they distribute evenly and burst with flavor.
- 2 ¼ cups (270g) All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup (226g) Unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) Granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (160g) Packed light brown sugar
- 1 large Egg
- 1 teaspoon Alcohol-free vanilla extract
- 10 ounces (about 1 ¾ cups) Maraschino cherries, well-drained and roughly chopped
- 1 ½ cups (255g) Semi-sweet chocolate chips
While experimenting with flavors is a great way to personalize your cookies, don’t forget to check out this delightful recipe for Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake. The combination of fruity flavors and rich cream will inspire even more baking adventures.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Baking these Heavenly Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies is a straightforward process, but following each step carefully ensures optimal results. Let’s get started on creating a batch of pure joy!
- Prepare Your Cherries: First, drain your maraschino cherries exceptionally well. Excess liquid can make your cookies cakey or prevent proper spreading. I recommend placing them on several layers of paper towels, pressing gently to absorb as much syrup as possible. Then, roughly chop them. This helps distribute the flavor evenly throughout your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. Combining these thoroughly ensures leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer (stand or hand mixer), cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy. This typically takes 2-3 minutes. This creaming process incorporates air, contributing to the cookies’ texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg until just combined, then add the alcohol-free vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed well.
- Gradually Add Dry to Wet: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix; overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough cookies.
- Fold in Cherries and Chocolate: Gently fold in the well-drained, chopped maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula. Mix just until they are evenly distributed. This ensures every bite of your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies contains both delightful ingredients.
- Scoop the Dough: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough (or use a 1.5-inch cookie scoop) onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. The residual heat will continue to cook them as they cool.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking and helps them set. Then, dig into your amazing Heavenly Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving bakery-quality Heavenly Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies involves a few simple tricks. As a baker from Sweet Magnolia, I’ve learned these secrets in my own kitchen. Implement these tips for consistently perfect results every time you bake.
- Drain Those Cherries Religiously: This is perhaps the most critical step. Maraschino cherries are packed in syrup. If you don’t drain and pat them dry thoroughly, that extra moisture will create cakey, overly soft cookies that spread too much. I usually place them between multiple layers of paper towels and press firmly. This ensures your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies have the right texture.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter creams beautifully with sugar, creating an airy, emulsified base. A room-temperature egg incorporates more smoothly into the mixture, contributing to a better cookie texture. Plan ahead and take your butter and egg out about 30-60 minutes before you start.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you add the flour, mix until just combined. Overmixing develops gluten, which makes cookies tough and less tender. A few streaks of flour are fine; they’ll disappear as you fold in the mix-ins.
- Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended): For thicker, chewier cookies with a more developed flavor, chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight. This allows the ingredients to meld and prevents excessive spreading. This step truly elevates your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.
- Underbake Slightly: Remove your cookies from the oven when the edges are set and lightly golden, but the centers still look a little soft and underbaked. They will continue to cook on the hot baking sheet. This ensures a wonderfully chewy interior.
- A Touch of Sea Salt: Sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the warm cookies immediately after they come out of the oven. This enhances the flavors of both the chocolate and the cherries, adding a gourmet touch to these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.
- Rotate Baking Sheets: If your oven has hot spots, rotate your baking sheets halfway through baking. This promotes even browning and ensures all your glorious Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies bake uniformly.
Following a few baking tips can make all the difference in achieving that perfect cookie texture, much like the secrets shared in this Frozen Strawberry Margarita Recipe. Both recipes benefit from attention to detail, ensuring you enjoy an indulgent experience every time.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Once you’ve baked a delicious batch of Heavenly Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’ll want to ensure they stay fresh and delightful for as long as possible. Proper storage is key to maintaining their texture and flavor. Here’s how I keep mine perfect, whether for a few days or longer.
At Room Temperature:
- Store cooled Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Placing a slice of bread in the container can help keep them soft, as the cookies will absorb moisture from the bread.
- Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent them from drying out or melting.
In the Refrigerator:
- While not typically necessary for baked cookies, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week. The texture might become a bit firmer.
Freezing Baked Cookies:
- For longer storage, cooled Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 3 months.
- To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for an hour or two.
Freezing Cookie Dough:
- You can also freeze unbaked cookie dough. Scoop the dough into individual balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake, place frozen dough balls on a prepared baking sheet and bake as directed, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time. This is a fantastic way to have fresh Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies on demand!
Reheating:
- To bring back that “freshly baked” warmth, place cookies on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Alternatively, microwave individual cookies for 10-15 seconds until just warm and soft. Be careful not to overheat, or they can become tough.
What to Serve With This Recipe
These fantastic Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are undeniably delicious on their own, a complete treat in every bite. However, pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further, turning a simple snack into a delightful moment. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy these bright and cheerful cookies:
- A Glass of Cold Milk: The classic cookie companion! A tall, frosty glass of milk provides the perfect counterpoint to the sweetness and richness of these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies. It’s comforting and timeless.
- Hot Coffee or Tea: For the adults, a freshly brewed cup of coffee, perhaps a dark roast, offers a wonderful bitterness that cuts through the sweetness. A soothing herbal tea, especially a fruit-infused blend, can also complement the cherry notes beautifully.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Imagine two warm Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies sandwiching a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream. It’s an instant ice cream sandwich that’s utterly decadent. The melting ice cream and soft cookies create a sublime texture contrast.
- A Scoop of Sorbet: For a lighter, brighter pairing, a scoop of raspberry or lemon sorbet can provide a refreshing, tangy counterpoint to the cookies. The fruitiness will echo the cherries beautifully.
- Fresh Fruit Platter: Balance the indulgence with a platter of fresh, seasonal fruits like berries, melon slices, or grapes. The natural sweetness and freshness cleanse the palate between bites of your wonderful Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened homemade whipped cream can add a touch of elegance and airiness. It’s simple, yet effective, making these cookies feel even more special.
- A Dessert Wine: For an adult treat, consider pairing these cookies with a sweet dessert wine like a late-harvest Riesling or a Moscato d’Asti. The fruity notes in the wine will enhance the cherry flavor in the cookies.
No matter how you choose to enjoy your ultimate Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies, they are sure to bring a smile to your face and a burst of flavor to your day.
Enhancing your cookie experience can be as simple as pairing them with the right side, such as indulging in Strawberry Lemon Cream Scones. The delightful combination of flavors will turn your dessert into a truly memorable occasion.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
While you can certainly experiment with fresh cherries, remember they have a different flavor profile and moisture content than maraschino cherries. Fresh cherries are less sweet and don’t have that distinct almond-like essence. If you opt for fresh, pit them and chop them very finely.
Also, ensure you pat them excessively dry to prevent adding too much moisture to your cookie dough. Using fresh cherries might slightly alter the texture and flavor of your finished Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies, making them less “heavenly” in the specific way the maraschinos provide.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Several factors influence cookie spread. First, ensure your butter is softened, not melted. Melted butter leads to flatter cookies.
Second, chilling your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) helps significantly. This solidifies the fats, preventing rapid spreading in the oven. Third, measure your flour accurately; too little flour can cause excessive spreading.
Finally, do not overcrowd your baking sheets, and make sure your oven temperature is accurate. A too-cool oven can also cause these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies to spread excessively before they set.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Freezing the cookie dough is a fantastic time-saver. Scoop the dough into individual balls, then arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Freeze until the dough balls are solid, usually about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Label them with the date.
Your unbaked Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies dough will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls directly on a prepared baking sheet and bake, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the usual baking time. This convenience makes fresh, warm cookies available anytime!
What kind of chocolate chips work best?
For these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies, I generally recommend semi-sweet chocolate chips. Their classic flavor provides a perfect balance, neither too sweet nor too bitter, complementing the cherries beautifully. However, don’t limit yourself!
Milk chocolate chips offer a sweeter, creamier profile, which some people adore. Dark chocolate chips (60% cacao or higher) introduce a more intense, sophisticated bitterness that can create a wonderful contrast. Even white chocolate chips can be a delightful addition, especially if you love a sweeter cookie. The best kind truly depends on your personal preference!
Why are my cookies not chewy?
If your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies aren’t chewy, a few common culprits might be at play. Overbaking is the most frequent reason; remove them from the oven when the edges are golden, but the centers still look slightly soft. They firm up as they cool.
Also, using too much flour or not enough brown sugar can affect chewiness. Brown sugar adds moisture and softness. Lastly, make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and that you’re not overmixing the dough once the flour is added.
Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to a tougher, less chewy cookie. Adjusting these elements will help you achieve perfectly chewy my Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Heavenly Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delicious twist on traditional cookies, incorporating sweet cherries and rich chocolate chips for a burst of flavor in every bite. These treats can be enjoyed on their own or with a glass of milk, making them a beloved choice in the world of baked goods, much like the influence of chocolate chip cookies.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
While these Heavenly Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are an indulgence, it’s helpful to have an idea of their nutritional content. Please note, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. A ‘serving’ here refers to one standard-sized cookie.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 25mg |
| Sodium | 110mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Total Sugars | 16g |
| Protein | 2g |
I hope you’ve enjoyed this journey through the world of my Heavenly Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies. From my grandma’s kitchen to yours, these delightful treats are more than just a recipe; they are a cherished memory, a burst of joy, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Happy baking from Sweet Magnolia!
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Heavenly Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 30-31 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Heavenly Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies combine the sweet tartness of maraschino cherries with the richness of chocolate, resulting in a delightful cookie that evokes warmth and nostalgia.
Ingredients
2 ¼ cups All-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Baking soda
½ teaspoon Salt
1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup Granulated sugar
¾ cup Packed light brown sugar
1 large Egg
1 teaspoon Alcohol-free vanilla extract
10 ounces Maraschino cherries, well-drained and roughly chopped
1 ½ cups Semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare your cherries by draining them well and roughly chopping
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy
- Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and chocolate chips
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart
- Bake for 9-11 minutes until edges are golden brown and centers are soft
- Cool on the baking sheets for 2-3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack
Notes
Make sure to drain and pat the cherries dry to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
For chewier cookies, consider chilling the dough before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10-11 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg