Name: Chewy Maraschino Cherry Cookies That Wow Every Time
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Substitution: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for gluten-free cookies.); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter (Must be at room temperature for easy mixing.); 1 cup light brown sugar (Contributes to the caramel flavor.); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (Adds a touch of sweetness.); 2 large eggs (Substitution: Use flax eggs for a vegan option (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (Omit for nut allergies or substitutions.); 1 drop pink gel food coloring (Optional, for a cheerful pop of color.); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (Pairs beautifully with cherries.); 1 cup maraschino cherries (Drained and finely chopped for juicy bursts of sweetness.)

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The delightful aroma of freshly baked cookies can transform any ordinary day into something special. If you’re craving a unique treat, these Maraschino Cherry Cookies will bring a joyful twist to your dessert table. With their soft, chewy texture and the playful pop of maraschino cherries mingling with rich chocolate chips, they’re not just a cookie—they’re an experience! What’s even better is that these cookies can be whipped up in just 40 minutes, making them a quick baking option for any occasion. Plus, with customizable variations for gluten-free and vegan diets, everyone can indulge in this sweet treat. Are you ready to explore how to make these delicious cookies that are sure to impress?

Why Are Maraschino Cherry Cookies a Must-Try?

Quick Preparation: These cookies come together in just 40 minutes, making them an easy option for unexpected guests or a last-minute dessert.

Bursting with Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate chips and vibrant maraschino cherries adds a delightful twist that elevates traditional cookies.

Customizable: Whether you want gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free versions, this recipe adapts beautifully to meet dietary needs.

Chewy Perfection: With a soft, chewy texture, each cookie creates a satisfying mouthfeel that keeps you reaching for more.

Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are perfect for parties or potlucks, appealing to kids and adults alike. For similar crowd-pleasing recipes, check out Cosmic Brownie Cookies.

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• All-purpose flour – Provides the foundation for a chewy texture. Substitution: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for gluten-free cookies.
• Cornstarch – Helps create an even softer cookie.
• Baking soda – Ensures the cookies rise beautifully.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness of the cookies.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness; must be at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Light brown sugar – Contributes to the caramel flavor.
• Granulated sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness that complements brown sugar.
• Large eggs – Acts as a binding agent for a chewy cookie. Substitution: Use flax eggs for a vegan option (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
• Vanilla extract – Provides warmth and depth of flavor.
• Almond extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile. Note: Omit for nut allergies or substitutions.

For the Add-ins
• Pink gel food coloring – Optional, for a cheerful pop of color.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – The star addition that pairs beautifully with cherries.
• Maraschino cherries – Drained and finely chopped for juicy bursts of sweetness.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. This simple step ensures that your Maraschino Cherry Cookies bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden edge as they bake.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Creating this dry mixture allows for uniform distribution of the leavening and flavoring agents, which is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture in your cookies.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, resulting in tender Maraschino Cherry Cookies as they bake.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the large eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture. Blend on low speed until just combined. These wet ingredients not only help bind the cookie dough but also add a delightful depth of flavor that complements the maraschino cherries and chocolate chips beautifully.

Step 5: Color the Dough
For a cheerful touch, add a small amount of pink gel food coloring to the dough, mixing until the desired hue is achieved. This step is optional but can add a fun twist to your Maraschino Cherry Cookies, making them visually appealing for parties or special occasions.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until fully combined. You want to avoid overmixing; just blend until there are no visible flour pockets, creating a dense and chewy cookie dough.

Step 7: Fold in Add-ins
Use a spatula to gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips. This step ensures that every bite of your Maraschino Cherry Cookies has a perfect blend of fruity sweetness and rich chocolatey goodness without breaking down the dough’s structure.

Step 8: Scoop Dough
With a cookie scoop or two spoons, form golf ball-sized dough balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. For extra flair, roll the dough balls in additional chocolate chips or chopped cherries if desired. This will enhance the visual appeal of your cookies once baked.

Step 9: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-13 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake and lose that chewy texture that makes these Maraschino Cherry Cookies so delightful.

Step 10: Cool
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes. This resting time lets them set properly before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen as you anticipate the first bite of your delicious Maraschino Cherry Cookies.

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize your Maraschino Cherry Cookies with these delightful twists that will tickle your taste buds and make each batch uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix instead of all-purpose flour for a delicious gluten-free version. Bake to perfection with the same flavors!
Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) to create a tasty vegan option. Your guests won’t even notice the difference!
Nut-Free: Simply omit almond extract or replace with a splash of extra vanilla if nut allergies are a concern. Delightfully simple while retaining all that delicious flavor.
Flavor Boost: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for an even richer taste. The depth of chocolate will sing when paired with sweet cherries!
Fruity Twist: Substitute maraschino cherries with dried cranberries or apricots for a unique fruity explosion in every cookie. They bring a different texture and flavor that’s equally satisfying!
Crunchy Surprise: Toss in a handful of finely chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch. This adds delightful texture and a nutty flavor that complements the chews wonderfully.
Citrus Kick: Add a teaspoon of freshly grated orange zest or lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist that lifts the overall flavor. It’s such a vibrant addition to tantalize your taste buds!
Heated Adventure: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or sprinkle some cinnamon for a subtle hint of heat. This combination will wow those who love a little spice in their sweet treats.

For even more fun recipes, check out Cosmic Brownie Cookies, where you can explore other unique flavor combinations that are sure to impress!

Expert Tips for Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Chill the Dough: Give your cookie dough at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator before baking. This enhances the flavors and makes it easier to handle.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies towards the end of baking. Overbaking can turn your cookies from soft and chewy to hard and dry.
Adjust for Stickiness: If your dough feels too sticky, add a little more all-purpose flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency to create perfect Maraschino Cherry Cookies.
Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate chips and maraschino cherries. This choice can significantly elevate the flavor of your cookies.
Freeze the Dough: For future treats, scoop your dough into balls and freeze them. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes for delicious cookies anytime.

What to Serve with Maraschino Cherry Cookies

The delightful sweetness and chewy texture of these cookies create the perfect foundation for a delectable dessert spread.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, balancing the sweetness of the cookies. Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat!
Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries adds a fresh contrast that beautifully complements the rich chocolate and cherry flavors. Serve them on the side for a vibrant touch.
Milk or Almond Milk: A glass of cold milk or non-dairy alternative enhances the overall experience while making each bite of the cookie even more satisfying.
Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavor of coffee provides the perfect contrast to the sweetness, allowing the flavors of the cookies to shine through.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip your Maraschino Cherry Cookies in warm chocolate fondue for a luxurious dessert experience. The extra meltiness will have everyone coming back for more!
Cherry Sauce: Enhance your cookie experience by topping them with a homemade cherry sauce for an extra burst of flavor that ties in with the maraschino cherry theme.

How to Store and Freeze Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will help maintain their soft, chewy texture.

Fridge: If you want to keep the cookies fresher for a week, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To refresh day-old cookies, microwave briefly for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Enjoy their melty goodness!

Make Ahead Options

These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients and sealing it tightly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For even longer storage, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. To ensure the best quality, allow the frozen dough to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled or thawed dough onto a baking sheet and bake as directed, leading to delicious cookies that are just as fresh and chewy as if they’d been made on the spot!

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting maraschino cherries?
Choose maraschino cherries that are bright in color and firm in texture. Look for jars where the cherries are packed in a syrup that is clear and not cloudy, which indicates freshness. Avoid any jars with dark spots or signs of spoilage, as they can affect the flavor of your cookies.

How should I store my Maraschino Cherry Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Alternatively, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This will preserve their soft, chewy texture while allowing you to enjoy them a little longer.

Can I freeze the cookie dough for Maraschino Cherry Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookie dough, scoop it into golf ball-sized portions and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the dough balls in a single layer for about 1 hour, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake them straight from the freezer, just adding an additional 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

What can I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find that your dough is sticky, don’t worry! Gradually add more all-purpose flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a manageable consistency. This will ensure your cookies maintain their desired chewy texture without spreading too much while baking.

Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
This Maraschino Cherry Cookies recipe is nut-free, especially if you omit the almond extract. For those with egg allergies, you can substitute large eggs with flax eggs—mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. If you’re making these for pets, please remember that chocolate is toxic to dogs, so ensure your furry friends don’t get into the cookies!